In early 2026, Above Ground and MiningWatch Canada co-organized a series called Interrogating “critical minerals.” The series featured two webinars and a hybrid civil society discussion, and aimed to unpack numerous human rights and environmental issues related to the growing global emphasis on critical minerals.
The first webinar, Indigenous Perspectives on the Global Critical Minerals Rush, brought together five Indigenous speakers from around the world to discuss global, regional and local struggles for justice related to the global push for critical minerals extraction. Panelists called attention to specific harms and rights violations, explored what a “just” energy transition might look like, and underscored key considerations for civil society groups working on related issues. A recording and description of panelists can be found here.
The second webinar, Canada’s approach to critical minerals at home and abroad, provided a deep dive into Canada’s approach to critical minerals and the context in which it is unfolding. Four speakers, representing government and civil society, shared detailed insights and offered diverse perspectives and critiques of Canada’s strategy. A recording and description of panelists can be found here.
The final event was a closed-door discussion for civil society groups to strategize on social, environmental, and corporate justice advocacy related to critical minerals. Participants explored several key themes, including labour concerns in critical minerals supply chains, the military use of critical minerals, and what minerals are actually needed for a just transition away from fossil fuels. Indigenous justice was a cross-cutting focus throughout the discussion. The event was supported by the Human Rights Resource and Education Centre at the University of Ottawa.
Giving the political and economic significance of critical minerals projects globally, as well as the interest from civil society to counter harmful critical minerals narratives and actions, Above Ground plans to continue convening civil society discussions. Please reach out if you’re interested in getting involved, and sign up for our newsletter for future updates.