Troops may worsen, not resolve Peru mining protest

Significance

The decision of President Ollanta Humala's government to send in troops to deal with protesting farmers in the Islay province of Arequipa reflects frustration at a conflict that has lasted years and threatens to disrupt one of Peru's larger mining projects. It also shows up the deficiencies of the police in dealing with social conflict.

Impacts

• Many mining projects are being held up because of conflicts with local stakeholders.
• Social movements tend to be fragmented and lack leadership in national politics.
• Once trust breaks down between miners and local communities, it is difficult to restore it through corporate social responsibility spending.