Percentage of security personnel trained in human rights

The information below provides disclosure under the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) indicator HR8: Percentage of security personnel trained in the organisation’s policies or procedures concerning aspects of human rights that are relevant to operations.

This core indicator is categorised under the GRI aspect of security practices.

Human rights considerations cut across a range of disciplines at AngloGold Ashanti, including health, safety, security, community, environmental, human resources, legal and regulatory, ethics, governance and labour relations. Operating with respect for human rights is a particularly relevant consideration for the company because of the location of many of our operations in regions of the world, including in post-conflict zones, where there are few formal employment opportunities apart from mining. This context creates the potential for tension between mines and communities over issues such as land usage, relocation and artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM). A major focus for the company has therefore been the implementation of the Voluntary Principles on Human Rights and Security (VPSHR) in security management practices.

A structured approach to the training of security personnel has been adopted since 2008 in order to create a better understanding of and commitment to the requirements of the VPSHR, specifically with regard to the use of minimum force and rules of engagement. In 2010, approximately 88% of the company’s security personnel, including third-party contractors, were trained in the organisation’s security procedures, including aspects relating to human rights and implementation of the VPSHR.