Interpersonal and Institutional Distrust as Disabling Factors in Natural Resources Management: Small-Scale Gold Miners and the Government in Suriname

Abstract

This article evaluates recent changes in gold-mining policies in Suriname, focusing on the contrasting perceptions about these policies by the government and small-scale gold miners. The data illustrate that distrust, which is constructed by history and culture, shapes perceptions about what are fair and effective regulations when it comes to access to, and control over, mineral resources. Yet distrust not only exists between the national government and local gold miners, it also weakens strategic positioning and decision making within these groups. The researchers argue that while effective regulation of the gold sector requires that government officials make an effort to establish trust with their constituents, it is as important that gold miners work on becoming trustworthy partners in dialogue and interventions for the government. It is concluded that trust is a process, and particularly in small-scale societies such as Suriname, this process needs to start with building interpersonal trust.