International Council for Artisanal and Small-scale Mining (IC-ASM)

About Us

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We are a global platform dedicated to support and advocate for artisanal and small-scale mining and quarrying (ASM) operators on the international stage. Our aim is to ensure our voices as miners are at the centre of decision-making processes that directly impact the ASM sector.

Our members consist of global ASM associations, each committed to championing the rights and interests of miners. Together, we work to address both existing and emerging challenges with the sector, while promoting the positive environmental, social, and economic contributions of ASM. Our goal is to strengthen mineral security - ensuring a sufficient and affordable access by all people to minerals necessary for human security including shelter, sustenance, energy, mobility and communication.

Our Areas of Work

Leadership training workshop
Leadership & Empowerment

Women in Mining Leadership Development Program

Intensive leadership training for women ASM leaders from West Africa, focusing on organizational management and advocacy skills.

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ASM networking conference
Collaboration & Networking

Annual ASM Associations Regional Conference

Bringing together ASM associations from Southern Africa to share best practices and coordinate advocacy efforts.

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Technology training session
Capacity Building

Digital Tools for ASM Business Management

Training miners on using digital platforms for record-keeping, market analysis, and financial management.

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News and Events

ASM community meeting

Community Development

New Community-Led Initiative Empowers Women in Artisanal Mining

Miner using digital technology

Technology Innovation

Digital Platform Connects Artisanal Miners to Global Markets

Voices from ASM

Africa - French

Mining Association President

“IC-ASM aims to create an environment where associations have the capacity to defend their interest“

South America - Spanish

Artisanal Miner

“Through IC-ASM, our voices are finally being heard on the global stage“

Asia - English

Community Leader

“The council brings hope for better working conditions and fair trade“

West Africa - English

Small-scale Mining Cooperative

“IC-ASM's training programs have transformed our operations“

Central Africa - French

Women in Mining Representative

“Finally, a platform that addresses gender issues in artisanal mining“

East Africa - Swahili

Youth Mining Advocate

“The future of sustainable mining starts with organizations like IC-ASM“

Africa - French

Mining Association President

“IC-ASM aims to create an environment where associations have the capacity to defend their interest“

South America - Spanish

Artisanal Miner

“Through IC-ASM, our voices are finally being heard on the global stage“

Asia - English

Community Leader

“The council brings hope for better working conditions and fair trade“

West Africa - English

Small-scale Mining Cooperative

“IC-ASM's training programs have transformed our operations“

Central Africa - French

Women in Mining Representative

“Finally, a platform that addresses gender issues in artisanal mining“

East Africa - Swahili

Youth Mining Advocate

“The future of sustainable mining starts with organizations like IC-ASM“

Resources

Publications

Final report of the UN Panel on Critical Energy Transition Minerals UN Guidance for Action on Critical Energy Transition Minerals

Research Papers

Latest academic research on artisanal mining practices, sustainability, and economic impacts in developing nations

Policy Documents

Government regulations, international mining policies, and legislative frameworks affecting small-scale mining operations

Training Materials

Educational resources, safety guidelines, and best practices for artisanal and small-scale mining communities

Case Studies

Success stories and lessons learned from mining communities across Africa, Asia, and South America

Toolkits & Guides

Practical toolkits for mining associations, environmental management guides, and community engagement resources