Dams and defense of territories

The construction of dams as a manifestation of extractivist dispossession and the defense of the territories as a strategy of resistance of the communities

Abstract

This article goal is to help us understand better the mechanisms and strategies of the domination systemat this particular moment in time, in order to show the dams as some manifestations of an extractivist model dispossession, and raise some elements about the opportunityof action and resistance against the megaprojects imposition and for the defense of the commons.

This article shows that we are currently in a historical phase of polarization, where two kinds of projects are looming: first, the neoliberal integration, and then, the communities’ integration. The first, with the use of commodification policies, is looking to control the natural resources, the ones considered to be geostrategic,and also make sure that the groups in power still have the economic privileges. The second project is looking to defend territories, the communities’ self-determination and autonomy, and is shared by more and more people, communities and organizations.

The construction and imposition of dam projects in Mexico is more and more important, particularly in the south-east of the country, according to data from the Programa Nacional de Infraestructura (PNI) (National Infrastructure Program) 2014-2018. They also used some of the results of the Pre-Audiencia “Presas, Derechos de los Pueblos e Impunidad” (Pre-Hearing “Dams, Peoples’ Rights and Impunity” held in November 2012 in the community of Temacapulín, Jalisco, threatened by El Zapotillo dam.