es.euronews.com
Swedish Sami reindeer herders face displacement due to mining expansion
In northern Sweden, the expansion of an iron mine and a planned rare earth minerals mine threaten the traditional reindeer herding routes of the Sami people, jeopardizing their culture and livelihood, further complicated by climate change impacts.
- What broader challenges beyond the Per Geijer mine affect Sami reindeer herding?
- In addition to mining, climate change significantly impacts Sami reindeer herding. Freezing rain creates ice layers covering lichen, the reindeer's primary food source, and high summer temperatures reduce reindeer grazing, impacting their winter survival. The Kiirunavaara iron mine expansion already forced longer, more difficult migration routes for Sami herders.
- How will the expansion of the Per Geijer rare earth mine impact the Sami reindeer herders of Gabna?
- The Per Geijer mine, if built, will directly cut off the reindeer migration routes used by the Gabna Sami community, rendering their traditional herding practices impossible and potentially leading to the extinction of their reindeer-centric culture.
- What are the potential long-term consequences of these converging challenges for Sami culture and the Swedish economy?
- The displacement of Sami reindeer herders could lead to the irreversible loss of their unique culture and traditional knowledge. While the Per Geijer mine aims to reduce Europe's reliance on China for rare earth minerals, potentially benefiting the Swedish economy, this comes at a substantial cultural cost that needs careful consideration. The viability of Sami reindeer herding, a pre-historic tradition, is threatened.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a balanced view, showcasing both the perspectives of the Sami reindeer herders and the mining company LKAB. While it highlights the potential negative impacts on the Sami way of life, it also acknowledges the potential economic benefits of the mine and the efforts being made to find solutions. The introductory paragraph sets the stage by presenting the conflict between the Sami herders' concerns and the planned mine development, but it doesn't explicitly favor one side over the other.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective. The article uses direct quotes from various stakeholders, including Sami herders, government officials, and mining representatives, allowing readers to form their own opinions. While words like "sombrío" (somber) and "fragmentando" (fragmenting) might be considered slightly loaded, they accurately reflect the concerns of the Sami people. The overall tone is one of factual reporting rather than advocacy.
Bias by Omission
The article could benefit from including more detailed information on the economic impact of the mine on the broader Swedish economy. Additionally, while the article mentions efforts by LKAB to find solutions, it would be helpful to include specific details about those efforts and the degree of Sami involvement in those discussions. The article also doesn't delve deeply into the potential environmental impact of the mine beyond its effect on reindeer migration.
Sustainable Development Goals
The expansion of mining operations threatens the livelihood of Sami reindeer herders, potentially leading to economic hardship and displacement. The loss of traditional grazing lands directly impacts their ability to sustain their families and maintain their cultural practices, which are intrinsically linked to reindeer herding. This could push Sami communities into poverty.