"You are Wasting your Time Here, You are the One Who has to Disappear: " by Alaina K. Addy
 

Honors Theses

Date of Award

Spring 5-10-2025

Document Type

Undergraduate Thesis

Department

Croft Institute for International Studies

First Advisor

Kate Centallas

Second Advisor

Marcos Mendoza

Third Advisor

Ian Gowan

Relational Format

Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract

This thesis explores the systemic relationship between extractivism and violence against environmental defenders in the Amazon Basin, focusing on case studies from Peru and Colombia. Through a comparative, qualitative analysis of the experiences of Jani Silva in Putumayo, Colombia, and the Pacheco family in Madre de Dios, Peru, it argues that violence against defenders is not incidental but a structural outcome of extractive systems. Whether tied to legal or illegal activities, extractivism damages the environment, causing a need for protestors and defenders of the land. However, the activities continue, operating through corruption, impunity, and state neglect. This study, drawing on theories of extractivism, environmental justice, the resource curse, and structural violence, reveals how defenders face threats, surveillance, and murder at the hands of both state and non-state actors. By highlighting the experiences of defenders alive and resisting, this work contributes to the growing literature on environmental defense. It deepens our understanding of embedded violence in extractive economies and questions the assumed legitimacy of “legal” resource development. It emphasizes the need for stronger protections, accountability, and inclusion of affected communities in decision-making processes. Ultimately, the thesis underscores the urgent need for international and domestic frameworks that safeguard defenders and their environments.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Available for download on Thursday, October 29, 2026

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