Foundation for the Conservation of the Earth (FOCONE) is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organization dedicated to fostering respect for human rights within Nigeria's extractive sector. We champion the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights (VPs), bringing together companies, government, and communities to promote accountability and responsible practices.
Founded in 1996 as Save Earth Nigeria (SEN) and formally registered in 2009, FOCONE has a long-standing commitment to sustainable development and social justice. Our mission is to promote actions that are healthy, informative, and environmentally friendly.
FOCONE adopts a participatory approach to development, empowering marginalized groups, fostering critical reflection, and facilitating constructive engagement between stakeholders. We believe in building capacity and ensuring communities have a voice in decisions that affect their lives.
Since 2017, FOCONE has actively participated in the Nigeria Working Group on Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights (NWGVPSHR). We have been involved in national assessments, multi-stakeholder dialogues, and capacity-building initiatives to promote the adoption and implementation of the VPs.
From the outset, we focused on raising awareness of the Voluntary Principles and the vital role of Human Rights Due Diligence. Our early work involved bringing key stakeholders together to build understanding and encourage the adoption of responsible practices.
Capture our international advocacy efforts in various parts of the world.
Through our dedicated work, we've reached these communities, raising awareness about the importance of the Voluntary Principles and human rights in the extractive sector. This direct engagement is crucial to fostering understanding and driving positive change on the ground.
Participation in quarterly NWGVPSHR meetings.
Contribution to the 2019 National Baseline Assessment of the VPs.
Facilitation of training on non-judicial grievance mechanisms.
Engagement with communities in the Niger Delta region to raise awareness of the VPs.
Participation in international training on Business and Human Rights.
FOCONE collaborates with a wide range of organizations to amplify our impact. We are proud members of:
Nigeria Working Group on Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights (NWGVPSHR)
International Code of Conduct Association (ICoCA)
OECD- Watch
National Business and Human Rights Roundtable (NBHR2R)
International Network for Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ESCR – Net)
African Coalition for Corporate Accountability (ACCA)
Publish What You Pay (PWYP) Nigeria
National Coalition on Gas Flaring and Oil spill in the Niger Delta (NACGOND)
NOPRIN Foundation
