From complaints to change [2]: The future of the FSC Complaints Mechanism and What It Means for Indigenous Peoples
This session aims to build understanding among FSC members about the fundamental changes introduced in the draft FSC Complaints and Appeals Procedure, with a particular focus on implications for Indigenous Peoples. Co-organized by FSC International (SIU) and the FSC Indigenous Foundation, the session will explore current barriers faced by Indigenous communities in accessing FSC’s dispute resolution systems and evaluate how the new procedure enhances accessibility, inclusion, and compliance with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.
Peggy Smith, Lakehead University
Dr. M.A. (Peggy) Smith (Miskwaanakwadook—Red Cloud Woman) is a Professor Emerita in Natural Resources Management at Lakehead University and a retired Registered Professional Forester from Ontario, Canada. Of Cree ancestry from Treaty #9 territory, she has over 30 years of leadership in Indigenous rights and forestry. Ms. Peggy serves on the FSC Indigenous Foundation Council and has been active in FSC since 1993. She also chairs the Rights and Resources Group Board, promoting land rights globally.
Te Ngaehe Wanikau, FSC PIPC
Te Ngaehe Wanikau is a respected Indigenous leader from Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro – Ngāti Tūwharetoa in Aotearoa New Zealand. With over 40 years of experience, he has led historic tribal settlements, co-governance initiatives, and global Indigenous advocacy. He serves as the Oceania Representative on the FSC Permanent Indigenous Peoples Committee. Te Ngaehe champions Indigenous rights, environmental stewardship, and self-determination, combining traditional knowledge with modern policy strategies to secure cultural and land rights for Indigenous Peoples.
Gabriel (Gabe) Bolton
Worked for over 10 years as a forester in the North-eastern US with more than 20 years of experience related to forest certification. Employed by Rainforest Alliance in 2006 and has been with Preferred by Nature since October 2018. As Preferred by Nature Senior Technical Advisor, Forestry, Gabe serves as a global technical expert for forest management certification, providing support to regional offices with management of high profile and controversial certificates. Gabe is a qualified FM auditor trainer and senior FSC FM auditor and has participated in more than 50 audits and assessments in 19 countries on six continents.
Julian Nierentz
Overseeing the current revision of FSC´s complaints and appeals procedure. Responsible for FSC´s complaints´ mechanism and for managing complaint cases that reach FSC International, including Policy for Association cases. Joined FSC in 2012 working in various roles in market development including Value Chain Development or Trademark Management before joining System Integrity in 2022. Economist by training specialized in international trade and development.
Event Details
- Tuesday, 28 October
Time: 08:30 - 10:00 (EST - Panama) / 14:30 - 16:00 (CET) / 21:30 - 23:00 (WITA)