Struggles and Hope in the Páramos
Introduction
My name is Sanne Kroezen Peña, I am a Dutch-Ecuadorian MSc student of Law and Society at Leiden University. Currently, I am in Ecuador to conduct fieldwork for my thesis on local perceptions of water justice in the communities along the Guarguallá and Alao rivers, in collaboration with the Observatorio Politecnico del Agua of the ESPOCH university. I would like to take you along different perespectives on justice I encountered in the paramos of Guarguallá.
Attitudes in the páramos
From Licto, it took us a 1.5-hour drive uphill to reach the páramos of Guarguallá. The páramos are high-altitude ecosystems in the Andes, known for their cold climate, unique vegetation, and vital role in water supply and biodiversity. The páramos are essential for providing fresh water to millions of people, but face threats from climate change, agriculture, mining, and unsustainable land use, which endanger their ecological balance and water supply functions.
As we ascended, the landscape gradually transformed: the air grew colder, and signs of human habitation diminished. Fewer houses dotted the landscape, agriculture became sparse, and the architecture appeared simpler. Occasionally, we spotted alpacas grazing on the rugged terrain. Along the way, we picked up three local men for an interview we had arranged.
Intense emotions
These men have spent their entire lives in the páramos, which they call home. They now serve on the board of ASARATY, a local organization that oversees the management of alpacas in these fragile ecosystems. During our conversation, deep frustrations emerged, rooted in the injustices they endure. They feel unheard, overlooked, and abandoned by both the government and the downstream communities that rely on the páramos’ water supply. The scarcity of employment opportunities further compounds their struggles. The páramos are vital for water, yet their delicate nature prohibits livestock grazing and crop cultivation, leaving these men feeling as though they have been left with nothing. Our discussion was charged with intense emotions: anger, sadness, disappointment, and a profound sense of distrust. They believe they have sacrificed much to protect the páramos and feel they deserve recognition and support in return. Ultimately, these men have adopted a “wait-and-see” approach, worn down by years of neglect.
Resilience and determination
A few weeks later, I had the chance to speak with another resident of the páramos. Pedro* is a former community leader and ex-president of ASARATY, who is now collaborating with the ESPOCH to produce alpaca wool products, together with other residents from the páramos (see photo). He presented a stark contrast to the previous group. In an area plagued by poverty, Pedro’s resilience and determination stood out. While he acknowledges the injustices faced by his people, he refuses to wait for others to solve their problems. The páramos is his home, and he cherishes the fresh air and natural beauty, which fuels his drive to protect it. Rather than waiting for change, Pedro has taken action with the alpaca wool production initiative.
Witnessing such a positive, forward-thinking perspective amidst the surrounding adversity is truly inspiring. Despite the challenges and angry neighbors, Pedro remains optimistic. As he says, Ecuador is a beautiful country with endless opportunities, and it’s up to each individual to make the most of them.
*Name changed for privacy reasons
