Defensa cultural y patrimonial ante megaproyectos energéticos: el caso de comunidades mayas en México

José Israel Herrera

doi:10.53897/RevESCC.2025.4.01

Authors

José Israel Herrera Autonumus University of Campeche https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6961-8958

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53897/RevESCC.2025.4.01

Keywords:

heritage, maya communities, large-scale energy projects, cultural justice, prior consultation

Abstract

This article explores the tensions between large-scale energy projects and the cultural and heritage rights of Maya communities in Mexico. Through an interdisciplinary approach that integrates legal, anthropological, and cultural perspectives, it analyzes how energy transition processes and sustainable development initiatives impact not only the territory but also traditional knowledge, cultural practices, and symbolic landscapes of these communities. Using documentary and legal analysis, complemented by recent case studies, the article identifies the main challenges faced by communities in response to state and corporate policies, as well as local strategies of resistance and defense. It argues that respect for intangible cultural heritage is a crucial component of achieving effective cultural justice and that current mechanisms of consultation and participation need to be rethought in light of international human rights and heritage standards.

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Author Biography

José Israel Herrera, Autonumus University of Campeche

Mexican. PhD on Law from the University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands, and doctorate in government and public administration from the Escuela Libre de Ciencias Políticas y Administración Pública de Oriente de Veracruz. Professor and researcher at the Centro de Investigaciones Jurídicas of the Universidad Autónoma de Campeche, Mexico. Lines of research: megaproject; free, prior and informed consultation; human rights; policies towards indigenous people. E-mail: jiherrer@uacam.mx

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