Work

Rescaling Geoeconomics: The Role of Local Illicit Authority in Global Megaprojects

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: s This article examines the influence of violent non-state actors (VNSAs) on the construction of large-scale infrastructure projects in conflict-affected territories. Recentering such territories, it challenges state-centric geoeconomic narratives, which often overlook the significant role of local illicit authorities in shaping project outcomes. The study demonstrates how geoeconomic ambitions, such as regional or global influence and energy security, depend on negotiating with local actors in contested territories. The findings reveal the blurred boundaries between domestic and international authority in these regions and suggest that megaprojects must account for multi-scalar authority dynamics. We illustrate our argument by analyzing the construction of two megadam projects: the Hidroituango Dam in Colombia's Antioquia Department and the Myitsone Dam in Myanmar's Kachin State. Drawing on original evidence collected during extensive fieldwork comprising semi-structured interviews and observations in these two conflict-affected regions, we show that the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia and Myanmar's Kachin Independence Army, respectively, exercised authority in regions where the state's monopoly on violence was limited. These VNSAs obstructed or facilitated megaprojects based on tactics including extortion and community representation.

Source: International Studies Quarterly

DOI: 10.1093/isq/sqaf004

Authors: Annette Idler, Clara Voyvodic

Institutions: University of Oxford, University of Bradford

Language: English

Topic: Peacebuilding and International Security

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,536