Kristina Dietz

(Neo-)extractivism – a new challenge for development theory from Latin America

This paper addresses new challenges and identifies starting points for development theory following recent debates in Latin America on ‘new or neo-extractivism’. It focuses on the concept of neo-extractivism and the context of its emergence, and on the changing role of the state. Looking at a number of social economic indicators, we find that, even after considering differences between countries, (neo-)extractivism is not merely a temporary economic strategy in the region. Instead, it exhibits features of a consolidated development project. Empirical evidence from the region shows the fundamental implications of resource-based development paths in politics, social relations and territorial orders. To grasp these implications conceptually, we argue for a shift in theoretical perspectives related to the link between development and resource extraction. Key elements for such a shift are to be found in recent studies in rentier theory and politics and new approaches in the field of political ecology.

Politics of Scale and Struggles over Mining in Colombia

This chapter analyses the interrelations between struggles over mining and scalar configurations of political power. It draws on an anti-mining protest in the department of Tolima, Colombia, where the South African company AngloGold Ashanti is currently preparing to open an industrial gold mine. The chapter aims to show that struggles over mining are located within the interactions between state structures and the agency of local actors. It is shown that scalar configurations of power, for example political institutions, de- and recentralisation policies and legal frameworks, constrain and enable social engagement in struggles over mining. At the same time, through the exertion of participatory citizenship, actors opposing an industrial mining project contest the scaled geography of state power. Theoretically, the chapter combines insights from debates on the politics of scale, and from critical development and democracy studies.

Umwelt und Entwicklung

Das Kapitel skizziert die umweltbezogenen Debatten der Entwicklungspolitik und -forschung von den 1960er-Jahren bis heute. Leitbilder wie „nachhaltige Entwicklung“ und „Grune Okonomie“ werden vorgestellt und eingeordnet. Daran anschliesend bietet das Kapitel einen Uberblick uber Forschungen zu Umwelt und Entwicklung aus dem Feld der Politischen Okologie. Diese stutzen sich theoretisch auf die Annahme von Natur und Gesellschaft als konstitutiv aufeinander bezogen. Dargestellt werden das Konzept „Environmental Justice“ sowie oko- und neomarxistische, feministische und poststrukturalistische Arbeiten.

Direct democracy in mining conflicts in Latin America: mobilising against the La Colosa project in Colombia

ABSTRACT This article examines the conditions under which popular consultations serve as a means of protest against mining and the socio-political effects that result. Building on empirical research into the protests against the La Colosa gold mining project in Colombia, the analysis is rooted in social movement studies and democracy theory. It shows that the use of popular consultations is enabled by long-term political-institutional changes and short-term changes in structural conditions. The outcomes range from changes in project design to political agenda setting, and the opening of spaces for participation and public debate.