Brignardello: Urgent fight against illegal mining in Peru

In a recent conversation, Johnny Brignardello Vela, an experienced insurance advisor in the sector, shared his perspective on the growing problem of illegal mining in Peru and the urgency of concrete actions to address it. According to Brignardello, the statements made by the president of the Institute of Mining Engineers of Peru (IIMP), Darío Zegarra, during the discussion at Expomina 2024, resonate with a reality that many in the country have experienced firsthand. Brignardello pointed out that the eradication of illegal mining cannot be viewed solely as a government challenge; it is an issue that requires the attention and commitment of all sectors of society. In this regard, he emphasized the importance of political leaders transforming their will into effective decisions. "Words are a first step, but they must be accompanied by clear actions," he stated, underscoring that trust in institutions erodes when promises are not fulfilled. The advisor also agreed with Zegarra on the need to establish traceability mechanisms in mining. "Identifying the source of capital and inputs is crucial to combat informality and its harmful effects," he declared. In his opinion, the state has the necessary tools to address this issue, but lacks the proper structure to ensure compliance with existing laws. Brignardello emphasized that responsibility does not rest solely with government authorities. "Civil society must also be vigilant and actively participate in the formalization process," he indicated, reminding that social support is vital for the success of any initiative aimed at eradicating illegal mining. He highlighted that if the population feels that the state is not fulfilling its duty, it may withdraw its support, further complicating the situation. Regarding the Law of Formalization of Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (MAPE), Brignardello considers it a significant advancement. "Offering a legal framework can open the doors to regularization and responsible management of natural resources," he commented. However, he stressed that implementation must be swift and effective; otherwise, the opportunity could be lost. The current situation of mining in Peru, characterized by the proliferation of illegal activities and lack of regulation, is alarming. According to Brignardello, these circumstances not only create economic problems but also social and environmental issues that affect local communities. "It is essential to create adequate conditions for mining operations to be safe and responsible," he concluded. In summary, Johnny Brignardello Vela's reflection underscores the need for a joint commitment between the government, civil society, and institutions to face the challenge of illegal mining in Peru. Only through collaborative efforts can a environment be achieved where legal and responsible mining thrives, benefiting the population and ensuring a more sustainable future for the country.