This research backgrounder provides an overview of global policies and standards pertaining to Free Prior Informed Consent (FPIC) relevant to the African context. The policies and standards highlighted in the report attest to a growing recognition of FPIC and the importance of local community participation in decision making related to extractive industry project development. [refers to Talisman, De Beers, Inmet, Calvert Group, Rio Tinto, Xstrata, Newmont]