A roadmap for ESIA policy change in Ethiopia should address wide-ranging governance reforms

ABSTRACT Robust governance frameworks are crucial for maximizing the benefits of natural resource development in mining regions and minimising adverse social and environmental impacts. This paper analyses Ethiopia’s current ESIA policy, legal framework and implementation process to identify opportunities for policy reform. To gain perspective on leading practices in other countries, a comparative analysis of policies in Chile, Peru, Ghana, and Canada was performed. Interviews with representatives from government, industry, and civil society in Ethiopia were completed to gain perspective on the policy structures currently in place, and to identify areas for improvement. Results conclude that accountability mechanisms are currently limited in Ethiopia and that at the time of this study, the same authority was responsible for promoting mining and evaluating ESIAs. Contrary to legislative requirements, there was found to be a lack of transparency in the public availability of ESIAs and limited community participation. Compliance and monitoring processes were also found to be inadequate. Addressing these gaps is important to ensure that the expansion of Ethiopia’s mining sector proceeds in a sustainable manner.