Navigating mineral policy development challenges in the global south using analytic hierarchy process

The global mineral industry plays a crucial role in the economic development of nations, particularly in the Global South, which boasts rich reserves of valuable minerals. The Global South, encompassing regions in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, is home to a substantial portion of the world's mineral wealth. Effective mineral policies are pivotal in harnessing these resources to foster economic growth, alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development. In this context, our study aims to identifying and prioritizing the key challenges that a mineral policy needs to cater to in the Global South. This study adopts a twofold approach wherein the first part focus on the exploration of literature for assessing mineral policy challenges in the Global South. In the second part, AHP methodology is employed to structure the problem into a hierarchical model, with criteria, sub-criteria, and alternatives. The criteria in the model encompass a range of dimensions, including economic, environmental, social, and governance factors. Economic considerations examine issues related to revenue generation, foreign investment, and job creation. Environmental factors assess the impact of mining activities on ecosystems and biodiversity. Social aspects scrutinize the welfare of local communities, labor conditions, and indigenous rights. Governance criteria evaluate the regulatory framework, transparency, and corruption levels within the mining sector. Our results reveal a nuanced understanding of the mineral policy landscape in the Global South. Challenges are ranked according to their importance, allowing policymakers, industry stakeholders, and civil society organizations to focus their efforts on the most critical issues. For instance, findings may indicate that addressing environmental regulations is of paramount importance, closely followed by improving revenue distribution mechanisms and community engagement strategies. Furthermore, the study's outcomes empower decision-makers to tailor policies to the specific needs and circumstances of individual countries or regions within the Global South.