ABSTRACT
This chapter explores some of the roles played by rights-based non-indigenous NGOs from mining exporting countries as agents that act in, and create linkages between, various terrains of struggle. These NGOs frequently develop long-term solidarity relationships with local indigenous communities and facilitate meetings and information-sharing between mining-affected indigenous communities. The chapter provides examples of the ways in which NGO actors that work in solidarity with indigenous communities may introduce or support indigenous positions in multi-stakeholder Corporate Social Responsibility standard-setting processes. Close communications and joint actions with indigenous peoples have provided some NGOs with a chance to deepen their understanding of power relations and human rights in the complex political contexts in which these mining struggles are taking place. NGOs that prioritise relationships with indigenous peoples also face challenges. They must accept the need for constraint with regard to activism on projects that are not opposed by an indigenous community.
