Structures of mobilization and resistance: Confronting the oil and gas industries in Russia

• Published in: The Extractive Industries and Society
• Main Authors: Pierk, Simone, Tysyachnyouk, M.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: 2016
• Subjects: Indigenous peoples; Russia; environmental movement; governance-generating networks; oil/gas companies; Northwest Russia
• Online Access: https://research.wur.nl/en/publications/structures-of-mobilization-and-resistance-confronting-the-oil-and; https://doi.org/10.1016/j.exis.2016.07.004

Drawing on recent developments in the problematic relationship between the oil industry and local communities in the Republic of Komi, we develop a case study of environmental grassroots mobilization in northwest Russia. Using a qualitative methodology comprising semi-structured interviews and participant observation, we analyse the movement’s actions in terms of the concept of governance-generating networks (GGN), with reference to the global network of non-governmental environmental organizations and other institutions. The article focuses on the network of non-state actors, examining the spatial levels from local to global in an environmental movement seeking to challenge Lukoil, the major oil company in the region. We investigate the strategies adopted by the social movement and the responses of the oil industry and various governmental institutions, with this analysis including an examination of power between the different bodies and networks involved. In particular, we analyse different forms of corporate social responsibility seen in the steps taken by Lukoil to avoid more severe reactions.