Portraits of Territory: A methodological tool to create dialogue and alternatives around territorial conflicts

Abstract

This article describes the development of a methodological tool called Portraits of Territory. This tool, which was built over a period of 2 years along with communities and researchers of the Colombian Amazon, aims to promote dialogue about conflicts that arise because of territorial transformations and possible solutions to them. In the article, we discuss the building process of the tool, some relevant findings, and its potential, risks, and limitations. Likewise, we emphasize how it is a tool that allows for a broader understanding of the concept of territory, gives voice to communities that are usually excluded from decision-making processes about their territories, and questions extractive modes of knowledge production. We argue that Portraits of Territory may contribute to the construction of more horizontal relationships between these communities and the different external actors that intervene in or have influence over their territories.