Resistance is Fertile: Livelihood Struggles and Resistance Movements against Extractive Industries

Abstract

There are more than 400 ongoing conflicts involving the extractive industries (mining, gas and oil) and communities impacted by extractive activity. Most of these conflicts are in the developing countries of Africa, Asia and Latin America. In this paper we examine three resistance movements in Brazil, Chile and India where Indigenous groups are resisting mining operations on their lands. We argue these movements represent forms of subaltern resistance whereby marginalized communities negotiate with market and state actors to protect their livelihoods. In particular, we highlight the ecological and cultural aspects of these resistance movements and explore the tensions and contradictions that arise from mining activity. We draw on insights from political ecology to develop a more grounded theoretical account of resistance movements. We discuss the theoretical implications of our findings for resistance movements particularly with respect to the role of the state, and corporate social responsibility.