ID: 2119
Presenting Author: Santiago Vicuña
Session: 729 - FPIC - How prior is prior?
Status: pending
When is “prior” really prior? Explore strategies to balance timing, certainty, and trust so communities can shape projects through authentic engagement.
This session explores a critical question in Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC): When is “prior” truly prior? The timing of community engagement profoundly affects its ability to influence project outcomes. Early involvement—before submitting the environmental license—creates space for meaningful input and relationship building, yet it can introduce uncertainty due to limited information available at that stage. Later engagement allows companies to share concrete data and reduce ambiguity, but often diminishes stakeholders’ perceived influence.
Our approach prioritizes certainty over speed and encourages project teams to be present on-site early to foster trust and transparency. The main objectives are to:
• Introduce the company and project team, laying the foundation for long-term relationships.
• Map local stakeholders and understand the social and cultural context.
• Invite communities to participate actively while addressing risks of participation fatigue.
The discussion will examine strategies for balancing timing, certainty, and influence, ensuring communities remain empowered to make informed decisions throughout the process. By reframing “prior” as a commitment to authentic engagement rather than a fixed timeline, we aim to advance FPIC practices that are both practical and respectful.
Has over 15 years of experience working for the public affairs and private sector. He leads the social engagements area with stakeholders.
Coauthor 1: Javiera Arellano
Coauthor 2: Karol Oyanader