Decentralization, corporate community development and resource governance: A comparative analysis of two mining regions in Colombia 

Participant Stakeholders:  Continental Gold mining company, AngloGold Ashanti, Seafields Resources Canadian Exploration Company, Local and State governments of Antioquia and Risaralda, Ministry of Mines of Colombia, AngloAmerican Chile, The University of Queensland and civil society organisations.

Sustainability Leaders: Dr. Isabel B. Franco; Prof. S.Ali (U.S.A)
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Impact: The major challenge that companies face when engaging in sustainable livelihood transformations is related to the tiers of governance dynamics in which companies are immersed. The implementation of social responsibility agendas in poorly governed regions rarely delivers sustainable legacies for communities. This research posits the idea that the lack of regional connectivity in governance and conflict prevents companies from playing a stronger role in forging sustainable livelihoods. In this context, this research equips us with a broader understanding of the contribution of the private sector in delivering development outcomes. It does this through a comparative case study analysis of Risaralda and Antioquia, two resource regions in Colombia with differing governance nexus with private enterprises. 
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Beyond CSR? The Global Business of Local Sustainability

Participant Stakeholders:  Continental Gold mining company, AngloGold Ashanti, Seafields Resources Canadian Exploration Company, Local and State governments of Antioquia and Risaralda, Ministry of Mines of Colombia, AngloAmerican Chile, The University of Queensland and civil society organisations.

Sustainability Leaders: Dr. Isabel B. Franco

Impact: In recent years there has been increasing emphasis on the need for greater involvement of global business in fostering local sustainability. Various old forms of business ethics and corporate social responsibility are being replaced by sustainable business practices. Here, the private sector plays a key role. Yet, the role of the market, in mitigating the conflicting demands of the global economy and local livelihoods, is under- investigated. Dr. Isabel Franco’s book: ‘Beyond CSR? The global business of local sustainability’, explores the linkage between global mining and local livelihoods, which currently causes productive losses in the industry on account of delays and extra wages for imported labor as well as it fosters discontent and tensions in the region affected. The book is based on research findings, field observations and interviews with local corporate and government officials and community-based organisations. It focuses on the sustainable livelihood approach and develops a framework how mining and exploration interventions can help support communities adjacent to mining operations to maintain their livelihoods and meet their own development aspirations. The Project was led by our Founder Dr. Isabel B. Franco from idea to execution. To find out more about the livelihood strategies read “Dr. Isabel B. Franco’s book: ‘Beyond CSR? The global business of local sustainability.”
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