Rio Doce disaster: networks of the Movement of People Affected by Dams (MAB)

Abstract

In this article we examine the structure of the relationships networks of the Movement of People Affected by Dams in Espírito Santo (MAB-ES) in the Rio Doce disaster. It was a disaster unprecedented in the Brazil triggered by collapse of the Fundão dam of the Samarco, Vale, and BPH Billiton mining companies in 2015, in Minas Gerais. Following the Rio Doce disaster, the diffusion of MAB to Espírito Santo was marked by the construction of a collective identity among those affected. MAB-ES also plays an important role in organizing and articulating the people affected, acting in the organizational and identity formation of local civil society. In this scenario of socio-environmental injustices, how are the MAB-ES relationship networks configured in their conflict with authorities and corporations? What processes and mechanisms influence the dynamics of these networks, and how do they change over time? Through mixed-method research, five years of the socio-environmental disaster (2015-2020) were examined: (i) survey of 44 activists from 36 social movements and civil organizations in Espírito Santo; (ii) in-depth interviews with 4 activists; and (iii) social networks analysis. The study highlights a process of expansion, changes and stabilization of MAB-ES relationship networks over time, demonstrates its role in mobilizing and intermediating the conflict, a process that operates the mechanisms of brokerage and diffusion.