Political economy of state-indigenous liaisons: Ecuador in times of Alianza PAIS

Abstract

This article analyses the contentious liaisons between the indigenous movement and the state in Ecuador during the government of Alianza PAIS under the presidency of Rafael Correa (2007-2017). The research question examines to which measure, how and why the shift from neoliberal to leftist administrations could have affected the principal strategic repertoire of the indigenous movement. Leaning on a political economy approach and social movement theorizing, and accentuating the relative power balance between the indigenous movement and the state, it focuses on indigenous oppositional strategies and the ambivalent attitude of the state regarding participatory democracy and the rights of the indigenous peoples. By contrasting this period with the neoliberal 1990s-considered the heyday of the indigenous struggle-we examine contemporary strategic responses of the movement amidst the new political setting characterized by hyper-presidentialism and a systematic effort to de-corporatize the state. A central finding is that, while retaining its powerful organizational network which could be reactivated during critical situations, the indigenous movement weakened in relation to the 1990s. This relative decline is manifested in three types of social movement relationships: between leaders and grassroots (mobilizing capacity); between the movement and its alliance partners (alliance politics); and between the movement and the legal institutional terrain of the state (institutional participation).

Buen Vivir y la Economía Social y Solidaria en la Región Andina de Ecuador

“…Between 2007 and 2017, Ecuador experienced a process of political stability cemented by good economic, and social results (Lalander et al, 2019). The levels of poverty and inequality decreased and an agenda for the inclusion of marginalized social groups was incorporated (Goeury, 2021).…”

“…However, the macroeconomic measurements that took place in the country cannot be entirely attributed to BV and SSE principles. Former President Correa has been described as a neo-Keynesian economist (Lalander et al, 2019) trained in American and European universities, which could have influenced the economic policies introduced in the country. During Correa's administration, fiscal austerity was highly criticized.…”

Indigenous Ecuadorians’ Challenges and Attempts to Combat Extractive Industries: A Human Rights-Based Approach

“…As a result, indigenous demands for equality and participation were more visible. Indigenous and environmental groups, without a doubt, play an essential 'watchdog' role in political contexts regarding nature's rights (Lalander et al, 2019).…”