You can view the full map and all its details here.
In recent years, the Balkan region has become increasingly interesting to extractivist entities. The EU, in particular, has set its sights on the “critical materials” it claims to require for its so-called green transition, which will also be used to manufacture weapons and armaments. Germany and other states are implementing neo-colonial policies in relation to their non-union neighbors, pressuring governments to prioritize the needs of their economies over the well-being and future of their populations. The companies appointed to do the actual digging are multinational giants with legal and financial ties across the globe. As resource grabbing destroys environments and uproots communities, those most affected are burdened with all of the negative consequences and receive none of the benefits, while the profits totally bypass them.
Due to the extensive reach and multifaceted nature of extraction networks, there are numerous approaches to mapping their functions and effects. In this workshop, we started by mapping Dundee Precious Metals/DPM Metals, a company active across the Balkans with projects at various stages and with plans for mines in Ecuador.
Specifically, we traced the flows of resources and finances into and out of the company. These flows connect to form a complex web of stakeholders spanning several continents.
We also charted resistance movements fighting Dundee across the Balkans. Our focus was on the solidarity already formed between grassroots groups, civil society organizations, academics, researchers, and artists. This solidarity bridges people across borders and the divisions created by political elites. We wish to celebrate, strengthen, and support this solidarity.
Regional movement against extractivism
Finally, we analyzed a 20-year success story from the region: the case of Roșia Montană in Romania. There, mass mobilization and a long-term struggle prevented the opening of a gold mine. We listed the various tactics employed and considered how they could be adapted to other contexts.
The regional movement against extractivism is deeply rooted in the need to protect communities and nature from the harmful consequences of irresponsible mining and relentless exploitation of people and the planet. This movement unites local groups, legal experts, environmental experts, and artists to raise awareness and encourage resistance.
The Balkan mountains, rivers, forests, and land are sources of life for present and future generations, not reserves of raw materials. The people of the Balkans are uniting to protect their future and prevent their territory from becoming a site for the growth of the military industry.
Mining is war, and we shall resist.
Video interviews
During the three-day workshop ‘Mining is War,’ participant Matthieu Hansen interviewed other participants from the Balkan region. The first interview is with Iskra Krstić, a Belgrade-based researcher and activist.
The second interview is with Azra Berbić, a researcher and activist from Kakanj in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The ‘Mining is War’ workshop was facilitated by Zoe Aiano and Mihajlo Vujasin. Particpants were: Dorina Achelaritei, Azra Berbić, Matthieu Hansen, Aida Kapetanović, Vida Knežević, Iskra Krstić, Vincent Meyrignac, Anastasiia Noga, Martina Staneva-Antonova, WeSmellGas, Mela Žuljević.
This project was conceived at the Pluriverse of Peace conference by BG | berlinergazette.de.
All text and images: Creative Commons License CC BY 4.0.
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