Abstract

GUIZA, Leonardo; ROMERO PENUELA, Natalia  and  RIOS, Julián. Illegal Gold Mining in Colombian Amazon: Social and Environmental Impacts and Their Relationship with Illicit Crops, through a Case Study of de San José del Fragua (Caquetá). Estud. Socio-Juríd [online]. 2020, vol.22, n.2, pp.291-317.  Epub Aug 15, 2021. ISSN 0124-0579.  https://doi.org/10.12804/revistas.urosario.edu.co/sociojuridicos/a.8663.

The geographical features of Colombian Amazon, the access difficulties to this territory, and a low governmental presence have created a scenario in which it is possible to perform illicit economies, which are a financing source for armed groups. Bearing this in mind, this research analyzes the role of the state regarding illegal gold mining activities in the region and its link with crops for illicit use through the official database analysis, a review of the present academic production, semi-structured interviews with miners and coca growers, and fieldwork in San José del Fragua (Caquetá). This study shows that in the region, both illegal activities have a high impact on the deforestation of natural forests. Furthermore, these activities are common among the population due to the high income they generate. In the case study, the communities alternate the two activities (illegal mining and illicit crops).

Keywords : Ilegal gold mining; illicit crops; Colombian Amazon.

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