Publication
Title
Heterogeneity and labour agency in artisanal and small‐scale gold mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Author
Abstract
This article considers the broad question of how to improve the conditions of workers in artisanal and small‐scale gold mining (ASGM), which relies on predominantly informal activities. While acknowledging that formalization can provide ASGM miners with tenure security and protection of labour rights, it is important to highlight that not all workers are likely to benefit from formalization in the same way, and that decent work ambitions should extend to all workers, regardless of whether or not they are formalized. It is therefore crucial to understand the heterogeneity in the ASGM workforce. This article describes working conditions for different categories of workers based on a survey carried out in the Watsa and Shabunda territories in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. It analyses labour agency and shows that workers are diversely integrated in the labour process and may use power resources in various ways. The discussion reflects on ways to consider the heterogeneity in ASGM labour and to push the ASGM agenda beyond formalization.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Development and change. - Beverly Hills, Calif.
Publication
Beverly Hills, Calif. : 2024
ISSN
0012-155X [print]
1467-7660 [online]
DOI
10.1111/DECH.12818
Volume/pages
55 :1 (2024) , p. 123-156
ISI
001185782700001
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
Full text (open access)
The author-created version that incorporates referee comments and is the accepted for publication version Available from 16.03.2025
Full text (publisher's version - intranet only)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Project info
InforMining? An in-depth study of informalization processes in global gold production.
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 18.03.2024
Last edited 10.06.2024
To cite this reference