Movement of People Affected by Dams
ElMAR is the Movement of People Affected by Dams, founded in the Uruguay River Basin, Chapecó, Brazil, in 2016. It emerged from the joint work of communities affected by hydroelectric projects and international resistance networks, such as the Latin American Network of People Affected by Dams (REDLAR), with the aim of building a popular energy model that guarantees the sovereignty of peoples and defends community rights.
History and background
The struggles of each national organization and movement shaped what MAR is today.
The struggles of each national organization and movement shaped what MAR is today. Since its inception, it has been key to map each country’s energy processes and record local resistance, strengthening social coordination and mobilization. The exchange of continental experiences and lessons learned has consolidated an international movement with a presence in 21 countries in the Americas and links to Africa, Europe, and Oceania.
MAR objectives
- Strengthen the unity of affected communities in each country to defend their rights.
- Encourage the study and debate of energy models, building popular alternatives that guarantee sovereignty and collective well-being.
- Promote the construction of an alternative society to the capitalist system based on solidarity and internationalism.
Values and principles
MAR is founded on solidarity, internationalism, respect for Mother Earth, and the defense of the rights of affected communities. Its political training processes, meetings, and campaigns reinforce its commitment to climate justice and the energy transition.
