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Global Incorporation and Local Conflict: Sierra Leonean Mining Regions
Author(s) -
Akiwumi Fenda A.
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
antipode
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.177
H-Index - 98
eISSN - 1467-8330
pISSN - 0066-4812
DOI - 10.1111/j.1467-8330.2011.00945.x
Subject(s) - sierra leone , conflict resolution , state (computer science) , core (optical fiber) , political science , livelihood , locale (computer software) , geography , development economics , economic geography , political economy , sociology , ethnology , law , economics , computer science , archaeology , agriculture , operating system , telecommunications , algorithm
This paper draws upon a world‐system core–periphery framework to examine the nature and causes of persistent low‐level conflict in Sierra Leonean mining regions. Conflict is endemic because of asymmetrical power relations between global core‐state corporations and peripheral weak‐state Sierra Leone, which are mirrored locally within its mining regions. Structural constraints inherent in these relationships generate and sustain socioeconomic, cultural and environmental inequities. The paper reveals the complex web of micropolitics in the mining locale core‐periphery microcosm involving a weak state, exploitative corporations and oppressive traditional social hierarchies. The findings are relevant to effective policy making and conflict resolution.