Abstract

SANTOS, Jorge Filipe dos et al. Social networks of communities along Carajás railroad in the Eastern Amazon. Finisterra [online]. 2018, n.109, pp.149-166. ISSN 0430-5027.  https://doi.org/10.18055/Finis11783.

The populations along the 900km of the Carajás Railroad (EFC) in the Brazilian Amazon region present weak socioeconomic indicators. In part, this condition is due to its geographic and institutional isolation. This study aims to analyze a network of institutions working in the territory in order to understand how they articulate each other and which its potential to break isolation is. A methodology widely used in this context is based on the theory of social networks. In this work, the network was constructed from data obtained by interviewing 17 leaders of community associations and other institutions operating in the EFC corridor. The network was sparse, with few nodes of high centrality and reduced flows from external sources to local communities, limiting their capacity for collective mobilization and development. The strengthening of a denser and diverse network by local stakeholders is susceptible to transform the character of "resistance networks" against adverse impacts, to "collaborative networks" for sustainable development.

Keywords : Institutions; social networks; railway; mining; Amazon; Carajás Railroad.

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