APPENDIX The Guiding Principles for Building Consensus In Lima in June 1998, I presented the Guiding Principles to seventy-six people from eleven Latin American countries gathered to ask a foundational question: how do we build a sustainable future for mining and the communities in which it operates? The discussion that arose went directly to the heart of what this paper is about. The room drew a sharp distinction between consultation — where one group makes the decisions and asks others for input — and consensus, where each party at the table has an equal opportunity to influence the outcome. Definition of Consensus A consensus process is one in which all those who have a stake in the outcome aim to reach agreement on actions and outcomes that resolve or advance issues related to environmental, social, and economic sustainability. In a consensus process, participants work together to design a process that maximizes their ability to resolve their differences. Although they may not agree with all aspects of the agreement, consensus is reached if all participants are willing to live with “the total package.” The Ten Principles 1. Purpose-Driven — People need a reason to participate in the process. Impulsado por un propósito — La gente necesita una razón para participar en el proceso. 2. Inclusive, Not Exclusive — All parties with a significant interest in the issues should be involved. Inclusivo, No Exclusivo — Todas las partes con un interés significativo en los temas deben estar involucradas en el proceso de consenso. 3. Voluntary Participation — The parties who are affected or interested participate voluntarily. Participación voluntaria — Las partes que se ven afectadas o que están interesadas participan voluntariamente. 4. Self-Design — The parties design the consensus process. Auto diseño — Las partes diseñan el proceso de consenso. 5. Flexibility — Flexibility should be designed into the process. Flexibilidad — La flexibilidad debe incorporarse en el diseño del proceso. 6. Equal Opportunity — All parties have equal access to relevant information and the opportunity to participate effectively throughout. Igual oportunidad — Todas las partes tienen igual acceso a la información relevante y la oportunidad de participar de manera efectiva durante todo el proceso. 168
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