Socio-environmental damages of the Brazilian mining model: a qualitative study on the role of a social movement from the perspective of health promotion

Abstract

The socio-environmental damages resulting from the Brazilian mining model profoundly impact populations living and working in mining regions. This study examines the actions of the Movimento pela Soberania Popular na Mineração (MAM)—the Movement for Popular Sovereignty in Mining—in response to these damages from a Health Promotion perspective. Through documentary analysis and interviews with key informants, this research highlights three core components of the movement’s efforts: Organization, Training, and Struggle. A central focus of the movement is the advocacy for Mining-Free Territories, a struggle that can be understood through the frameworks of the Social Determinants of Health and the Social Determination of Health.