Mineração e indíce de desenvolvimento humano (IDH) em San Marcos-Peru.

Abstract

This research analyzes the relationship between mining activity and the Human Development Index (HDI) in the district of San Marcos, located in the province of Huari, Áncash region, Peru, an area directly influenced by the Compañía Minera Antamina. Despite the fact that San Marcos has been one of the districts receiving the highest amounts of revenue from mining canon and royalties since Antamina began operations in 2001, these resources have not translated into a significant reduction in poverty nor into sustained improvements in the population’s quality of life. The study acknowledges a gradual increase in the district’s HDI over the past two decades; however, this progress remains limited and uneven when compared to regional and national averages. Based on a theoretical framework grounded in Amartya Sen’s capabilities and freedoms approach, the research examines the gap between the availability of economic resources and the effective expansion of human capabilities in key areas such as health, education, income, and basic infrastructure. Methodologically, the research adopts a qualitative approach supported by quantitative data, through the analysis of secondary information from official institutions such as INEI, MEF, and UNDP, as well as the examination of social projects promoted by the mining company and public policies implemented by the State at different levels. The study is structured as a case study, allowing for an in-depth understanding of the territorial, institutional, and social specificities of San Marcos. The findings show that limited local administrative capacity, low budget execution, the lack of long-term planning, and weak coordination between public and private actors have constrained the positive impact of mining revenues on human development. In conclusion, the research argues that the growth of the HDI has not been sufficient to reduce structural poverty, highlighting the need to strengthen local governance, citizen participation, and the orientation of public policies toward the effective expansion of capabilities and freedoms in mining territories.