Mineral exploration and dissent among indigenous communities in Autazes: the influence of poverty, unemployment and lack of public services

Abstract

The municipality of Autazes (AM) faces complex conflicts between economic exploitation and environmental preservation, directly affecting its population, traditional communities, and indigenous groups. This study aims to investigate the influence of poverty, unemployment, and the lack of essential public services that contribute to the dissent among indigenous communities in Autazes regarding potassium mineral exploration. The research addresses the following problem: how does the inadequacy of public services impact decisions and contribute to dissent among indigenous communities concerning large-scale mineral exploration projects? To answer this question, the methodology employed is qualitative and exploratory, utilizing bibliographic research, documentary analysis of legal cases, and socioeconomic data. The findings indicate that the lack of

 basic services and economic opportunities makes communities vulnerable to external pressures, facilitating the implementation of large economic projects under the promise of regional development. The study concludes that poverty, unemployment, and deficient public services are key factors influencing the acceptance of large projects by indigenous communities and leaders, and they play a central role in the internal divisions within the indigenous communities of Autazes.