FSC’s Principle 3 includes elements of free, prior and informed consent (FPIC). FPIC guidelines (Version 1.0) was produced in 2012, and field tested around the globe. Version 1.0 was critiqued by a technical working group in 2016, and this led to the production of Version 2.0 of the guidelines. Version 2.0 has become a discussion paper for broader consultation with FSC members, rights holders and other stakeholders.
Version 2.0 of the proposed FPIC guidelines may be downloaded.
FSC stakeholders are asked to consider the consultation questions in Version 2.0 of the Guidelines, and taking part in the related consultation forum in November 2017. Members can participate either through the forum, or by sending an email to the contacts listed at the end of this document. FSC members are also asked to join a chamber-balanced working group to develop a concise, operational FPIC guideline for certificate holders, as part of the FSC guidelines for forest managers’ series. Nominations to this working group may be sought via member chambers.