Neoliberal governance and indigenous movements in Latin America

Abstract

This paper aims to place the analysis of indigenous movements within the global development of capitalism and the modern world-system, trying to offer a decolonial reading of these processes. It has been said that neoliberalism represents the current incarnation of that system, but also symbolizes a cultural project that provides criteria for designing governance policies on indigenous issues. Besides, we review the current trajectory of indigenous movements related to the various state governance strategies, implemented in three Latin American regions: Mesoamerica, the Andean countries and the Southern Cone. Finally, we analyze the counter-hegemonic and transformative potential of contemporary indigenous movements, in attempting to renew cultural values and meanings, questioning the system of power relations and promoting an alternative understanding of development.