ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the complex dynamics at play between Indigenous Peoples and large-scale mining operations within post/colonial contexts, providing a nuanced, multidisciplinary comparative analysis across several nations, including Australia, Canada, Finland, Greenland, New Caledonia, Norway, and Sweden. These nations are home to significant Indigenous populations and abundant mineral resources, creating a unique intersection of interests, challenges, and opportunities for both Indigenous communities and mining companies. Through a critical examination of existing literature and the articulation of new perspectives, the authors update and expand upon their previous work, exploring the myriad ways in which Indigenous Peoples are affected by and engage with mining activities. This chapter addresses the environmental, economic, and social impacts of mining; the legal frameworks governing Indigenous rights and land use; and the diverse responses of Indigenous communities, ranging from negotiation to resistance. By highlighting the specific vulnerabilities and potentials of Indigenous Peoples in the face of large-scale mining, the chapter probes the gaps in the current literature, suggests avenues for future scholarly inquiry, and contributes to a deeper understanding of the intricate relationships between Indigenous Peoples and mining operations.
