Customer Reviews

The Politics Of Power: Freeport in Suharto's Indonesia

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Few current studies of mining corporations come as close to their sites as this very fine, very thorough account of Freeport's operations in Indonesia. This well-researched account distinguishes itself by going from accounts of the physical impact of the gold mines in this particular site to an even-handed company account of what environmental management Freeport does (or does not) undertake and why, to a nuanced account of the relationship of Freeport's relationship with the Indonesian government and its ruling elite. Highly recommended.

Initially I was worried this book might be a polemic. However, it is not. In fact, despite the title, I found the book to be a reasonably balanced account of Freeport's involvement in Indonesia and a comprehensive history. The book breaks it down into subjects such as business dealings, human rights, development, environment, etc. The author does seem to try to give Freeport credit and the benefit of the doubt when it is due. However, the picture she paints is appropriately depressing.

A must for students of Indonesian studies, development, or corporate social responsibility.