The social costs and injustices of militarized approaches to illegal artisanal small-scale mining governance in Ghana

Illegal artisanal small-scale mining (ASM) in Ghana is a livelihood-supporting economic activity with associated environmental impacts, prompting government intervention through a joint military–police task force. This response has involved security personnel raiding illegal mining operations. However, the actions of the task force have resulted in significant social injustices and costs within affected communities. This paper contributes to the ASM literature by examining these injustices through a social justice framework, highlighting the economic, emotional and physical toll on miners and their communities. We demonstrate how state-led interventions aimed at curbing illegal mining have created social and human injustices, including the destruction of property and equipment, and the loss of life. In light of these findings, we join ongoing calls for the formalization and regularization of the ASM sector, emphasizing the need for more inclusive, humane and sustainable governance approaches.