Javier Jahncke from the Red Muqui visited London on 23-24 April to present the findings of the recent Humboldt University study entitled “Alternativas de Desarrollo en las Regiones Mineras de Peru”. This looks into the negative health and environment consequences of mining in Junín and Cajamarca. The study advocates boosting agricultural development as a route to sustainable growth.

His visit coincided with that of Marta Cecilia Gómez from CINEP in Bogotá. The PSG, Cafod and ABColombia joined forces to heighten public awareness of the struggles surrounding mining activities and the difficulties facing communities in defending their interests.

Gómez and Jahncke addressed two separate meetings, one at University College London (UCL) on mining, social conflict and alternative development strategies for Peru and Colombia on 23 April, the other in the UK Parliament the following day on post-Brexit investment in the Andean region and its implications for human rights.

The meeting at UCL discussed the impact of large-scale mining in both Peru and Colombia on health, the environment and livelihoods, along with the lack of meaningful government responses to such problems and their recourse to violence and intimidation in dealing with protest. The documentary “Stories of Water” was screened, a poignant film describing life in Peru’s mining corridor and how people have responded to health and other problems arising from mining. To see the film, follow the link.