Is AngloGold Ashanti's International Framework Agreement effective?

This book examines the two International Framework Agreements (IFAs 2002, 2009) of AngloGold Ashanti in Ghana, a subsidiary of the global mining giant, AngloGold Ashanti (AGA). AGA is the sole mining company in Africa to have signed an IFA. These agreements have become institutionalized as innovative and necessary instruments for global governance and business globalization. The study investigates the effectiveness of such agreements, focusing on the awareness, knowledge, understanding, their relevance and functionality. The research was conducted within the theoretical framework of sociology of law, which posits that such agreements should produce specific effects and shape social behavior in a predetermined and socially appropriate manner. The results revealed a lack of awareness and knowledge regarding IFAs, leading to a lack of appreciation for them. More importantly, these agreements were found to be non-functional. This highlights the need for local and national unions to receive support from their global counterparts in addressing the challenges of international labor standards. Advancements in this area will enhance the relevance and functionality of IFAs in Africa.