Proxy-led accountability for natural resource extraction in rentier states. Issue 1 (2nd January 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kramarz, Teresa; Mason, Michael; Partzsch, Lena
• Is Part Of: Environmental politics. Volume 32:Issue 1(2023)
• Page Start: 113
• Page End: 134
• Publication Date: 2023-01-02
• Subjects: Proxy accountability -- resource extraction -- rentier states -- Democratic Republic of the Congo; Environmental policy -- Periodicals; Environmental protection -- Periodicals; Ecology -- Periodicals; Green movement -- Periodicals; 333.72
• DOI: 10.1080/09644016.2022.2044219
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0964-4016

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The resource curse literature suggests that, in fragile states dependent on natural resource rents, structures of public accountability are weak because of an elite-controlled political economy indifferent to social and ecological interests. We examine accountability claims made by non-domestic proxy actors, holding governments and corporations accountable on behalf of communities adversely affected by natural resources extraction. This conceptualization is suggested by proxy-led transnational mobilization against mining-related damage in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We identify an 'hourglass' structure of proxy actor engagement with affected communities: In a first phase, proxies rely on public mechanisms to define standards remotely. In a second phase, proxies 'narrow' the gap by seeking compliance information from affected communities. However, in a third phase, this gap 'widens' again when proxies remotely seek sanctions against responsible actors. We discuss the applicability of this heuristic framework to proxy-led accountability practices in other natural resource-dependent rentier states.