Structure and Agency in Development-induced Forced MIgration

• In Event: 151 - Regular Session. Internal Migration

Abstract

Understanding agency is key within development- and environment-induced forced migration. Yet most research on forced migration focuses on its structural drivers (e.g. environmental degradation or urban redevelopment projects) while failing to consider how migrants make decisions and utilize social networks throughout the process. This paper examines how migrant agency and structural constraints interact to shape forced migration outcomes. I use longitudinal, semi-structured interview data to study forced migration among an agricultural population displaced by the Belo Monte Dam in the Brazilian Amazon. Results from baseline interviews indicate that nearly all community members aspired to purchase rural land in the region and maintain livelihoods as cacao farmers or cattle ranchers. Constraints limiting the ability to attain aspirations included strict requirements on land titles for properties, delays in receiving compensation, rising land prices, and the lack of power to negotiate for better compensation. Follow-up interviews suggest that despite the various constraints, most migrants were able to attain their aspirations. Factors associated with the ability to achieve aspirations included wealth, strong social and family networks, age, and health. These results indicate that agency does in fact play a key role in forced migration. From a policy perspective, households that are poor, elderly, or sick, as well as those with limited support networks, should be targeted for resettlement assistance in future cases of forced migration due to infrastructure projects or environmental change.

Author

• Heather Fawn Randell, Brown University