Kiyzassky Open-Pit Mine’s Interaction with Kuzbass’ Indigenous People Held Up as Example for Successful Collaboration
Kiyzassky Open-Pit Mine’s representatives took part in an informational seminar on legal issues in Novokuznetsk that was organized by the Association of Indigenous Peoples of the North, Siberia, and the Far East
The seminar touched upon issues concerning the interaction between industrial enterprises and indigenous peoples. Kiyzassky Open-Pit Mine’s long-term relationships with the ‘Shoria’ association, a regional public organization of the Shor people, as well as the ‘Mountain Shoria Development Fund’, were presented as positive examples for collaboration. From the first days of its operation, the mine has supported Shors living within the Myskovsky Urban District. Many projects have been carried out over the past six years: a spiritual center has been built, which includes an ethnic village, a forge, and a craft workshop; Shor language textbooks for Grades 1 and 2 have been published; playgrounds have been landscaped; celebrations of ethnic holidays have been organized, etc.
Grigory Ledkov, the president of the Association of Indigenous Peoples of the North, Siberia, and the Far East, who is also a senator in the Russian Federation, spoke positively of his experience: “I have repeatedly met with Shors who live in the Myskovsky District, and they are happy to talk about joint projects. The company always responds to the requests of indigenous people. It helps not only with financing, but also resolves organizational issues. We always cite Kiyzassky Open-Pit Mine as an example of successful cooperation, as it has established an effective relationship with the Shors and provides them with assistance in several areas at once. I want industrial enterprises to take an example from them and learn from this mine.”
The event was attended by public organizations, government officials, the management of Kuzbass’ industrial enterprises, and activists representing indigenous peoples in Russia.
The formation of a register of indigenous minorities was discussed at the seminar, as its creation would simplify the provision of state support. In particular, such a register would make it possible for applicants to enroll in universities on preferential terms and for retirees to receive a pension supplement. A 3rd Grade Shor language textbook is also being prepared for publication.
