26. The Committee welcomes the information provided by the State party on improving the situation of Tsaatan (Dukha) reindeer herders, including in respect of: (a) the provision of social insurance contributions and monthly subsidies; (b) the employment of herders as rangers of the Tenghis-Shishghed national park; and (c) the adoption of a new law on mineral resources that reportedly requires the consent and approval of the local community prior to the issuance of mining licences. Nevertheless, the Committee remains concerned at reports regarding: 

(a) The adverse impact of mining projects on the livelihood, lifestyle and culture of the Tsaatan (Dukha) people; 

(b) The fact that, in practice, the free, prior and informed consent of the Tsaatan (Dukha) people is not obtained when licences for mining in their traditional territory are granted;

(c) Poverty among herders living in remote areas.

27. In the light of its general recommendation No. 23 (1997) on the rights of indigenous peoples and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the Committee recommends that the State party ensure that the Tsaatan (Dukha) people are fully and effectively consulted on all decisions affecting them, including with regard to the issuing of mining licences, any restrictions on hunting practices and government policies and programmes intended to improve their standard of living. The Committee also recommends that the State party ratify the Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989 (No. 169), of the International Labour Organization.