Posters

Abstract

This paper proposes a comprehensive Social Management framework as a best practice model to encourage enhanced community engagement standards for wind energy projects in Brazil, particularly regarding traditional communities as defined by Brazilian legislation. Brazil's diverse traditional populations include indigenous peoples, quilombolas (Afro-descendant) riparian and extractive communities, and other culturally distinct groups, each governed by specific legal frameworks and constitutional protections under Articles 215, 216, and 231 of the Brazilian Constitution, alongside Federal Decree 6.040/2007. The Social Management Cycle presented encompasses territorial assessment, stakeholder mapping, and implementation of culturally appropriate social programs that respect the complex legal requirements governing traditional community rights. Each community type presents distinct challenges: indigenous territories require consultation protocols following ILO Convention 169 and FUNAI oversight; quilombolas communities demand recognition under INCRA regulations and Decree 4.887/2003; extractive communities operate under ICMBio jurisdiction with specific use agreements. The framework employs a soft engagement approach emphasizing active listening and participatory decision-making processes that accommodate diverse cultural protocols and governance structures. Beyond legal compliance, the strategy adopts international best practices and advocates for strengthened state guardianship over traditional communities, recognizing government structural and resource limitations in fulfilling its constitutional tutelary role. Key challenges include navigating overlapping jurisdictions, addressing linguistic barriers, reconciling traditional governance systems with formal legal requirements, and ensuring meaningful participation across communities with varying levels of formal organization. The framework incorporates advocacy strategies to enhance state capacity for community protection while implementing voluntary standards that exceed mandatory requirements. Success depends on establishing long-term collaborative relationships that transcend project timelines, building local capacity while respecting traditional knowledge systems. Expected outcomes include enhanced social acceptance, reduced project risks, strengthened community resilience, and contribution to Brazil's renewable energy goals while upholding constitutional commitments to cultural diversity and traditional rights, ultimately supporting energy transition benefiting all stakeholders.