Rescaling Geoeconomics: The role of local illicit authority in global megaprojects
Idler, A. Voyvodic Casabo, Clara
Idler, A.
Voyvodic Casabo, Clara
Publication Date
2025
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(c) 2025 Oxford University Press. Reproduced in accordance with the publisher's self-archiving policy. This is a pre-copy-editing, author-produced PDF of an article accepted for publication in the International Studies Quarterly following peer-review. The definitive publisher-authenticated version, Idler A and Voyvodic Casabo C (2025) Rescaling Geoeconomics: The role of local illicit authority in global megaprojects. International Studies Quarterly. Accepted for publication, is available online at: xxxxxxx.
Peer-Reviewed
Yes
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embargoedAccess
Accepted for publication
2024-06-12
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Awarded
Embargo end date
2027
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Abstract
This article examines the influence of violent non-state actors (VNSAs) on the
construction of large-scale infrastructure projects in conflict-affected territories.
Recentering such territories, it challenges state-centric geoeconomic narratives, which
often overlook the significant role of local illicit authorities in shaping project outcomes.
The study demonstrates how geoeconomic ambitions, such as regional or global
influence and energy security, depend on negotiating with local actors in contested
territories. The findings reveal the blurred boundaries between domestic and international
authority in these regions and suggest that megaprojects must account for multi-scalar
authority dynamics. We illustrate our argument by analyzing the construction of two
megadam projects: the Hidroituango dam in Colombia’s Antioquia department and the
Myitsone dam in Myanmar’s Kachin State. Drawing on original evidence collected
during extensive fieldwork comprising semi-structured interviews and observations in
these two conflict-affected regions, we show that the Revolutionary Armed Forces of
Colombia and Myanmar’s Kachin Independence Army, respectively, exercised authority
in regions where the state’s monopoly on violence was limited. These VNSAs obstructed
or facilitated megaprojects based on tactics including extortion and community
representation.
Version
Accepted manuscript
Citation
Idler A and Voyvodic Casabo C (2025) Rescaling Geoeconomics: The role of local illicit authority in global megaprojects. International Studies Quarterly. Accepted for publication.
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The full-text of this article will be released for public view at the end of the publisher embargo, 24 months after first publication.