I know this is coming up a bit late, but I was busy writing many papers as usual. This blog is about the debate that occurred in Vancouver about mining in Latin America. Although I couldn’t physically make it out there, I listened to it through the radio and took 6 pages of notes, yes, quite a bit. What can I do, I found it really interesting. So what are my thoughts? I find this subject really complicated. After listening to Goldcorp’s vice-president and the other panelists, I do have to agree with them saying that there is a lack of institutional integration from the governments which triggers violence and every day killings in Guatemala, for instance. But somehow, when mining companies arrive, things get more out of control and the issue of land rights stands out. For instance, last year in El Salvador a conflict started with those who opposed mining. It became so sharp that people were “gunned down.” Protestors and activists were shot, etc. This is one example of the kind of conflicts that take place at the local level when mines begin to operate. However, it was argued the amount of benefits given to the locals (from a Goldcorp perspective) even when they leave the country. For instance, their involvement with schools in the area, mentoring programs directed at development and capacity, and even museums showing people the equipment to teach them about mining. Companies also invest heavily in roads and improve the region’s communication infrastructure. Barrick for instance, gave a $500,000 grant to a community in Peru. Hmmm.. Nevertheless, as a Peruvian, I know the amount of corruption that exists, so I just wonder where exactly did that money go to. We can’t be so soft and just accept tokens. The amount of environmental consequences and health issues that companies leave in the area is just immeasurable. I understand that companies have to go where the gold is, but they have to respect the area in which they are going to and the people. This week, it was brought to my attention this new mining project in Peru, “Minas Conga” which is planning on making the biggest investment ever in this sector. However, a week after their proposal, locals rejected them by stating that the construction will leave the natural lakes without any water. There have already been violent incidents with workers from the company being hurt by locals. It’s very complicated.
There is a lot more I could say on this issue, but I’ll leave it open for opinions.
http://elcomercio.pe/peru/1323382/noticia-pobladores-le-dicenalto-mina-cajamarca