Women Defenders of the Sea and Territory in Conflicts Over Wind Parks in Oaxaca, Mexico

Abstract

Eolic energy generation is promoted as an alternative to mitigate climate change for being part of the energy transition strategies that involve migrating from fossil fuels to renewable energies. However, since the arrival of this type of projects to the Istmo de Tehuantepec region in Oaxaca, Mexico, conflicts have arisen between the inhabitants, companies, and local governments. The main problems are related to misinformation, breach of contracts, environmental damage, and the absence of consultations. These conflicts affect the population in a differentiated manner and consequently the ways of reacting are diverse. The present work analyzes with an intersectional perspective, based on a methodology of ethnographic profile, gender assemblages with other categories of oppression, such as ethnicity and age, that subordinate women defenders of the territory in the context of the installation of wind farms in three locations in Oaxaca. The intersection of ethnicity and age with gender allows multiple oppressions of women defenders of their territories to be visible in conflicts. The proposed intersectionality makes it possible to identify and promote probable forms of political organization according to the experiences of women. We conclude that it is relevant to make visible the diversity of voices within conflicts to position specific demands of the distinct groups and move towards solutions that are inclusive and effective, especially for young and elderly women.