The Power of Photography and Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining

A Rock and A Hard Place

Join us this week as we have Hugh Brown on the podcast, a best selling documentary photographer passionate about telling stories about the artisanal and small-scale mining sector. In this episode, we talk about the power of photography in telling stories about the people involved in this sector and how it is often the case that the images we see in the news and across the world focusing on ASM are typically used for political purposes rather than calls for action to reform and provide opportunity for the millions that depend on the sector. Hugh also provides some of his personal thoughts on how ASM is discussed in politics and the political obstacles communities face when it comes to sourcing metals. While many calls to action have been made, Hugh provides a critical review of these western countries as his travels have shown a much more complex and concerning reality on the ground. Finally, Hugh provides some common myths about the ASM sector, which he hopes to bust and find ways to open up the public's imaginary around the way these communities can be empowered for a better future rather than negatively targeted for current labor practices. These issues are highly controversial, but Hugh brings in his wealth of travel experience and connection with local communities to try to cut through the rhetoric and really understand how his work can bring awareness of these communities and the true potential they possess in being a key part in the global energy transition.