| Management
Developers have an obligation to respect the right of indigenous communities. When considering alternative hydropower options, priority should be placed on alternatives that maximise opportunities for, and do not pose significant unsolvable threats to, vulnerable social groups.
Although it is difficult to mitigate or fully compensate impacts, they may be minimised through early involvement of affected communities in decision making processes. Indigenous people and minorities will need to be formally represented to ensure understanding and management of issues of cultural significance. A program of social impact assessment should form part of an overall environmental and social impact assessment process that leads to the development of socially acceptable enhancement programs with net benefit.
Sufficient lead time and resources for minority groups to adapt to changing conditions, as well as alternative means to support traditional ways-of-life where required, can facilitate transition to unfamiliar environments. Compensation funds and the development of appropriate health, education and social services should all be considered in the development of appropriate mitigation strategies. Long-term financial support is best directed at measures that help define and maintain local cultural identity. |
