The primary means by which Rio Tinto relates to civil society is through partnerships with environmental, educational and Indigenous non government organisations (NGOs) under our global partnership programme. We recognise that many voluntary and NGOs have a serious interest in what we do and how we do it. The Rio Tinto global partnership programme currently involves 15 organisations.

Active Partnership

The programme places deliberate emphasis on forming active relationships. We not only provide funds but, just as importantly, contribute technical and business management skills and participate in the planning and implementation of each project. We choose community partnerships that are integral to our business and that are undertaken by organisations with which we share some common aims and objectives.

Principles for partnerships

The governing factor is that the partnership fits our business focus. We recognise that potential partners are also conducting the same process in considering which, if any, companies they should agree to work with. This process is healthy if it reduces the scope for incompatibility and misunderstanding later in the relationship. We have engaged with some organisations which have carried out reviews and decided that they do not want to work formally with Rio Tinto.

We consider, amongst other issues, the:

• Strategic relevance of the potential partnership from the company's point of view;
• Potential for the partner to benefit from the partnership;
• Capacity of the partner to make effective and efficient use of the funds and skills provided;
• Capacity and interest of the partner to contribute to our policy development;
• Opportunity for direct involvement of our people and operations; and
• Potential for a long-term relationship.

Trusts and foundations

Trusts and foundations have been employed by Rio Tinto as a form of partnership in community development for about 30 years. It is a useful way of sharing control of community relations and development with community leaders. It is funded by the operation and often by other entities with an interest in the foundation's activities, such as governments and other companies. In addition, there may be partnerships with charities and trusts.

More on trusts and foundations