Political settlements and artisanal and small-scale mining: the cases of Peru and Colombia

• In Event: Comparative mining governance in Latin America: problems of theory and methodology

Abstract

This presentation will discuss how two different trajectories in the consolidation of mining political settlements have converged around similar responses to artisanal and small-scale mining. Although mining has old roots in both countries, its contribution to the national economy, the role of elites and the formation of mining institutions is widely different. Peru has a strong-mineral dependent tradition, while mining in Colombia has only increased its relevance during the last decade. However, both countries have developed similar responses of formalization and criminalization to further marginalize artisanal and small-scale mining. Three conditions explain the convergence of responses: the adjustment to international institutional frameworks (such as the OECD and free trade agreements), the strengthening of large-scale mining operations (through the promotion of territorial expansion and the positive differentiation from informal activities), and the alignment with national State agendas. The findings will highlight the possibilities and limitations of a historical political economy approach and the relevance of political settlements in explaining the evolution of resource governance.

Author

• Gisselle Vila Benites, The University of Melbourne