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Contribution short abstract

This research analyzes the implementation of Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) in Arctic critical mineral mining projects. The increase in mining can negatively impact Indigenous populations, and my work examines FPIC as a tool to protect Indigenous voices in the green energy transition.

Contribution long abstract

With the increase in Arctic critical mineral mining, the United Nations non-binding principle of Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) emerged as a standard for conducting operations in a manner that respects the rights of Indigenous populations. However, challenges exist in the implementation of FPIC, especially across the Arctic region where each state follows its own mining laws and consultation requirements. The purpose of my research is to determine whether and how FPIC implementation differs across Arctic states, and to examine the consultation processes between mining groups and Indigenous peoples. My work is guided by the following questions: How does adoption of FPIC principles in national law affect how countries practice consultation with Indigenous groups? How can FPIC be used as a tool to strengthen Indigenous rights in Arctic critical mineral mining projects? I conduct a thematic analysis on eight qualitative interviews with experts and researchers from Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Canada. These interviews shed light on the current state of mining legislation in these Arctic countries, while also providing insight into how FPIC consultation processes were implemented amongst affected Indigenous communities. Findings analyze the implementation of FPIC in Arctic mining projects through three primary factors: 1) implementation of FPIC practices, 2) methods of community engagement, 3) justice for Indigenous communities in the context of the green energy transition. This research offers broad insights into how standards like FPIC can be effectively integrated into national frameworks to prioritize Indigenous voices and to support sustainable mining practices in the Arctic region.