…The recommendations include… to extend consultation period to at least two rounds of consultation; to conduct face to face consultations at all levels; to use regional languages (not only English); to accord special attention to the inclusion of vulnerable groups; to provide adequate information about the process well in advance through various media and not only through the AIIB website; and to ensure transparency, gender-sensitivity and cultural appropriateness in the process…

Indigenous Peoples is the result largely of the continuing violation of their collective rights to their lands, territories and resources in the name of national development, lack of access to basic social services including livelihood opportunities; and social, economic and political discrimination. The AIIB’s aims to fund infrastructure   development and other projects to support regional and national development targets will have serious implications on the lives and well-being of millions of Indigenous Peoples in the region. It is thus critical for the AIIB to provide a more meaningful and participatory consultation process with Indigenous Peoples’ representatives in the region to ensure that its ESS 3 on Indigenous Peoples is responsive to the conditions and circumstances of Indigenous Peoples in the region and is fully aligned with respect to their rights as affirmed by international human rights instruments.

Hence, we strongly recommend that key officials of the AIIB conduct a regional face-to-face meeting with duly selected Indigenous Peoples’ representatives. This regional consultation should provide for interpretation/translation services to ensure meaningful participation of community representatives as well as sufficient time for discussions and exchange of views. Information on the consultation as well as other necessary information and documents should be shared in advance (at least two weeks) prior to the consultation. AIPP extends its cooperation in planning for this regional consultation…