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Heterogeneity and Labour Agency in Artisanal and Small‐scale Gold Mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo

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  • Sara Geenen
  • Divin‐Luc Bikubanya

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.

Suggested Citation

  • Sara Geenen & Divin‐Luc Bikubanya, 2024. "Heterogeneity and Labour Agency in Artisanal and Small‐scale Gold Mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo," Development and Change, International Institute of Social Studies, vol. 55(1), pages 123-156, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:devchg:v:55:y:2024:i:1:p:123-156
    DOI: 10.1111/dech.12818
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    3. Sabine Luning, 2008. "Liberalisation of the Gold Mining Sector in Burkina Faso," Review of African Political Economy, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 35(117), pages 387-401, September.
    4. Geenen, Sara, 2012. "A dangerous bet: The challenges of formalizing artisanal mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo," Resources Policy, Elsevier, vol. 37(3), pages 322-330.
    5. Gavin Hilson & Clive Potter, 2003. "Why Is Illegal Gold Mining Activity so Ubiquitous in Rural Ghana?," African Development Review, African Development Bank, vol. 15(2‐3), pages 237-270.
    6. Bryceson, Deborah Fahy & Jønsson, Jesper Bosse, 2010. "Gold Digging Careers in Rural East Africa: Small-Scale Miners' Livelihood Choices," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 38(3), pages 379-392, March.
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