Contending approaches to development: comparing a large-scale dam and local initiatives in rural Ecuador

The government of Ecuador plans to build the Manduriacu Dam in the northwest region of Los Manduriacos. The state has echoed the recent global consensus that successful development must be sustainable and equitable. This consensus emerged amidst a long-standing debate between the proponents and opponents of large-scale dams—between those in favor of a dominant, neoliberal approach to development versus those in favor of alternative approaches. A case study was conducted in the region to be impacted by the Manduriacu Dam in order to assess whether or not the emergence of reformist approaches within major development agencies have delivered sustainability, local participation, and gender equity for impacted peoples. Comparatively, this study examines local, alternative approaches to development in the region and reviews projects completed in Ghana and Indonesia in order to derive comparisons and recommendations regarding the attainment of sustainable and just outcomes. Research found the Manduriacu Dam Project to lack greatly in the fulfillment of social rights, particularly Free, Prior and Informed Consent. Furthermore, women and other vulnerable peoples would bear a disproportionate amount of the health and safety hazards associated with the project. However, findings surrounding local initiatives in Los Manduriacos, and projects in Ghana and Indonesia, conclude that locally driven, asset-based approaches that mobilize women are some of the most effective ways to achieve sustainability. This suggests that such approaches should be integrated into large infrastructure projects, including dams, in order to achieve just and sustainable development