The Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) marked an important milestone with its first-ever meeting dedicated to labor members. This gathering brought together worker representatives from different regions and sectors, creating a space to exchange experiences and discuss how to strengthen the role of labor within the IRMA system. The meeting was framed not simply as a coordination platform, but as the foundation of a community that amplifies worker voices within the IRMA system.

The discussions highlighted the importance of ensuring that worker participation goes beyond the audit process and becomes central to the continuous improvement of mining operations.

The meeting included a presentation on the current scope of mining sites engaged with IRMA, showing the system’s growing global reach. Over one hundred companies and more than a hundred mine sites are currently engaged in the IRMA system, through either self-assessments or independent audits. The discussions explored how labor can leverage these opportunities to strengthen worker representation and ensure that mine audits reflect the realities on the ground.

Members also learned how other sector groups within IRMA such as affected communities, finance, civil society, and purchasing representatives have structured their collaboration. These insights provided useful examples of how labor can organize its own network to promote coordination, share knowledge, and strengthen the IRMA system.

A key outcome of the meeting was the identification of priorities for the labor sector. Members emphasized the need for greater capacity building and awareness-raising to support and build the capacity of unions and workers to understand IRMA’s Standard and assessment process. They proposed developing accessible training materials, using visual tools and translations to make information easier to share locally. Participants also called for structured onboarding support for new members and a step-by-step guide to participating in audit-related activities.

Another priority discussed was the importance of stronger coordination and collaboration. Members emphasized the need for consistent information sharing and regular updates from IRMA to ensure that labor perspectives are well integrated into ongoing activities. The meeting concluded with a proposal to hold regular bi-monthly calls, which will allow members to share progress, align priorities, and maintain momentum between in-person meetings.

The inaugural meeting marked a significant step forward in IRMA’s engagement with the labor sector. If you are an IRMA labor member and would like to be part of these conversations going forward, please contact Davidzo Muchawaya (dmuchawaya@responsiblemining.net)