(Dis)integration in Global Resource Governance: Extractivism, Human Rights, and Investment Treaties

This article explores the legal arrangements that integrate resource-dependent countries into the global economy. It argues that, while current debates about economic “dis-integration” focus on disruptions in cross-border trade and investment, for people affected by resource extraction it is the prevailing legal regime that dis-embeds and dis-integrates. Addressing these issues requires action to more fully recognise local systems of practice and belief, and more effectively consider human rights in investment processes.