CEU Electronic Theses and Dissertations, 2019
| Author | Varfolomeeva, Anna |
|---|---|
| Title | Articulations of Indigeneity in Two Mining Regions of Russia: A Comparative Case Study of Karelia and Buriatia |
| Summary | The aim of this dissertation is to analyze the constructions of indigenous identity in relation to resource extraction in two regions of Russia. The research concentrates on two case studies: Veps in Karelia (Northwestern Russia) and Soiots in Buriatia (South-Central Siberia). Both indigenous minorities have historical ties with mining industry including diabase and quartzite in Karelia and graphite and jade in Buriatia. The changes of post-Soviet period such as the closure of state mining enterprises in Karelia and the boost of industrial development, including informal mining, in Buriatia had impact on the articulations of indigeneity in both case studies. The dissertation shows that indigenous status recognition in post-Soviet Karelia and Buriatia is closely connected to having larger control over land and resources. To retain this control, community members need to construct their indigenous identities in the firm terms defined by Russian law. At the same time, local connections to land and resources in Karelia and Buriatia influence the character of indigenous claims and question the established state narratives, e.g. through engagement in informal mining activities. Strong ties of Veps with the stoneworking industry, as well as the sacrality of landscape in Soiot and Oka Buriat culture influence the formation of resource identities which are based on local resources and become an additional resource themselves. The research demonstrates that the relations between indigenous communities and mining may go beyond the established dichotomies of “traditional” versus “industrial” or “indigenous person” versus “mining worker.” The dissertation produces a thorough analysis of the links between the construction of resource and the construction of indigenous subject. It contributes to the general scope of studies focusing on indigenous peoples and extractive businesses in the post-Soviet space. It is envisaged that the research will contribute to the practices of negotiations between indigenous residents and extractive industries in Russia. |
| Supervisor | Steger Tamara |
| Department | Environment Sciences and Policy PhD |
| Full text | https://www.etd.ceu.edu/2019/varfolomeeva_anna.pdf |
Visit the CEU Library.
© 2007-2021, Central European University