Abstract
This study aims to analyze the relationship between illegal mining, conflict mineral extraction, and state governance in post-colonial contexts. Understanding this relationship is essential for any successful intervention against illegal mining or conflict mineral extraction. Through the case studies of Brazil, Ghana, Venezuela, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, it illustrates how colonial legacies shape complex dynamics among ethnic and socio-economic groups regarding land rights and usage in relation to mineral extraction. There is a large body of scholarship and discussion surrounding conflict minerals in the DRC, this study is unique in relating that case with cases of illegal mining in other countries. It presents a framework to view these case studies on a spectrum that compares the strength of a state to the presence of conflict in its artisanal mineral extraction. This study investigates how the strength of state institutions influences the mining of conflict minerals. The study aims to clarify the various factors, such as ethnic identity, governmental regulation, and economic conditions, that contribute to the formation and operation of illegal mining regimes.
Advisor
Pollock, Meagan
Second Advisor
Ng, Wee-Siang Margaret
Department
Earth Sciences; History
Recommended Citation
Paskus, Mike, "Comparing Cases of Illegal Mining and Conflict Mineral Extraction in Different Post-Colonial States: Brazil, Venezuela, Ghana, The Democratic Republic of the Congo" (2024). Senior Independent Study Theses. Paper 11041.
https://openworks.wooster.edu/independentstudy/11041
Keywords
Illegal Mining, Conflict Minerals
Publication Date
2024
Degree Granted
Bachelor of Arts
Document Type
Senior Independent Study Thesis
© Copyright 2024 Mike Paskus