Thesis Format
Monograph
Degree
Doctor of Philosophy
Program
Media Studies
Collaborative Specialization
Environment and Sustainability
Supervisor
Grzyb, Amanda F.
Abstract
This dissertation examines the multifaceted impacts of mining operations and the evolution of multi-scalar anti-mining activism by focusing on three important case studies in Central America: El Escobal in Guatemala, El Dorado in El Salvador, and Inversiones Los Pinares in Honduras. Utilizing a comparative empirical analysis, the study explores the strategies of anti- mining activists, including community-based communication initiatives to uphold the right to consultation and information for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, efforts to fuel skepticism about mining companies’ Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, and responses that counter the effects of smearing campaigns and criminalization of anti-mining actors. The theoretical framework of this dissertation is grounded in Environmental Justice and emphasizes the pivotal role of community members, civil society organizations, environmental activists, and scholars in organizing anti-mining resistance efforts. Drawing on fieldwork, interviews, and focus groups, this project bridges insights from network theory and political ecology to document the violence faced by anti-mining actors and trace the emergence of cross- scalar “networks of resistance.” Emphasizing the significance of cross-scalar actions, coalition- building initiatives, and a conflict transformation approach in anti-mining mobilization, the research underscores strategic interventions such as direct-action protests, community consultas, communication campaigns, solidarity delegations, and co-production of public reports. The research identifies framing approaches and strategic storytelling strategies as crucial elements in crafting effective communication outputs, signaling a shift from traditional North-to-South solidarity to more horizontal formations in the global struggle against metallic mining projects. Finally, by integrating political, economic, legal, socio-cultural, and ethical dimensions, this dissertation also explores the emergence, mobilization, and cross-sector communication potential of the Central American Alliance on Mining (ACAFREMIN) as a network of resistance models. The battle against mining is a global issue, and networks of resistance have a crucial role to play.
Summary for Lay Audience
This dissertation looks at how mining affects communities and how people in Central America and beyond have mobilized together to oppose it in three examples: El Escobal in Guatemala, El Dorado in El Salvador, and Inversiones Los Pinares in Honduras. The study compares these cases to better understand how people opposed to mining work together and form alliances in what I call “networks of resistance.” I demonstrate how activists engage in communication efforts that prioritize the local community and ensure that they have the right to be consulted about mining activities that may impact their lives. I show how activists are encouraging doubt about the effectiveness of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, which are programs or actions undertaken by companies to demonstrate their commitment to ethical and responsible business practices. Finally, I explore how anti-mining activists develop responses to counteract the negative effects of campaigns that portray them as criminals. The research is based on the concept of Environmental Justice, which highlights the important role of community members, organizations, activists, and scholars in anti-mining efforts. Using interviews and fieldwork, I describe the violence faced by activists and how this also inspires the growth of international networks against mining. I emphasize the importance of local, regional, national, and international actions, coalition-building initiatives, and a conflict transformation approach in anti-mining mobilization. I also underline the need for actions at different levels, such as protests, community meetings, communication campaigns, and collaboratively written reports. The research also explores how changing the way we tell stories can aid in the fight against mining. It suggests a shift from traditional North-to-South solidarity to more equal global partnerships. Lastly, the dissertation explores the Central American Alliance on Mining (ACAFREMIN) as a model for other movements, considering political, economic, legal, socio-cultural, and ethical aspects.
Recommended Citation
Ferrucci, Giada, "Networks of Resistance: A Regional Analysis of Extractive Conflicts in Central America" (2024). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 10074.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/10074
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