Environmental Advocacy through Afro-Mobilization in Esmeraldas, Ecuador: A case study about territorial defense against environmental exploitation
2024 (English)Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (Two Years)), 20 credits / 30 HE credits
Student thesis
Abstract [en]
This study delves into environmental Afro-mobilization in Esmeraldas. It examines themes of environmental justice, Afro identity, and mobilization, with a focus on the use of digital platforms. Esmeraldas is known for its coastal resources, significant Afro-Ecuadorian population, and abundant natural wealth. Despite this, its environmental activism has received limited academic attention. This research seeks to address this gap by examining how Afro-communities in Esmeraldas mobilize in response to environmental challenges.Utilizing thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews and review of secondary sources, the study integrates local experiences with theoretical frameworks. Findings highlight inclusive methodologies that honor local knowledge, cultural practices, and collective ancestral memory, grounding Afro identity and mobilization. Interviews underscore participatory research activism's role as a bridge between Afro-communities and academia, while emphasizing the state's role in empowering rural Esmeraldas communities. In conclusion, Afro-communities in Esmeraldas actively engage in environmental mobilization, utilizing cultural practices, direct action, and political advocacy to combat environmental degradation and assert their rights. Afro identity serves as both resilience and strategic direction for activism, advocating for inclusive and equitable approaches to environmental justice that empower local actors and respect cultural heritage.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
2024. , p. 69
Keywords [en]
Afro-mobilization, environmental mobilization, digital platforms, Afro identity, environmental justice, Esmeraldas, Ecuador
National Category
Political Science Other Geographic Studies Peace and Conflict Studies
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:su:diva-242604OAI: oai:DiVA.org:su-242604DiVA, id: diva2:1955236
Supervisors
Examiners
2025-04-292025-04-292025-05-08Bibliographically approved