This report is the result of a ‘perceptions study’ based on interviews opinions, views and experiences. The report is neither a performance assessment nor an audit. In contrast to a perceptions study, audits and assessments focus on ‘testing’ company systems and procedures, and validating that plans are being implemented. This was not the approach taken in this study.

The researchers did not evaluate the status or effectiveness of community engagement and social development programs that Yanacocha has planned or that are currently underway. The research team were commissioned to listen to interviewees, focus on what people said, and capture their views in a concise report. When Yanacocha invited CSRM to undertake the study, there was some internal recognition that the company had not been listening well to the community, in particular to people from Cajamarca city. The release of this report is an initial step towards remedying that gap.