ASPI is pleased to invite you to the launch of the report 'Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism in Africa: The Role of the Mining Sector' by Lisa Sharland, Tim Grice and Sara Zeiger.

This in-depth report will be launched along with a paper providing recommendations on how the Australian mining sector should step up to prevent and counter violent extremism on the continent.

Terrorism and violent extremism remain a significant threat to international peace and security. Although few regions have been immune, Africa has been particularly susceptible. Weak institutions, porous borders, inadequately trained or ill-equipped security forces, historical grievances and a lack of economic opportunities have created susceptible conditions for extremism ideologies to grow and persist in parts of the continent. Those threats are already affecting the way mining companies approach their operations on the continent. With rising risks to Australian nationals, businesses and foreign investment through the mining industry, violent extremism in Africa is a direct threat to Australian national interests.

While several international frameworks for counter terrorism have recognised the important role of the private sector in prevention measures, there has been little research and analysis exploring private sector involvement. This report by the ASPI in cooperation with Hedayah examines how the private sector, utilising the case study of the mining sector in Africa, does and can engage in P/CVE efforts. It provides recommendations for mining companies, the industry, governments and communities on approaches to engage mining companies in efforts to contribute to P/CVE efforts.

ASPI would like to acknowledge and thank the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade for their financial support to undertake this project, as well as those Australian mining companies that engaged and provided support to conduct field research as part of the project.

ASPI would like to acknowledge Paydirt and AAMEG for their support of this event.