Microcredit, Conflict, and Cooperation: Two Cases of Associational Engagement in Western Nicaragua

• Main Author: Meyer, Elias R., 1975-
• Language: en_US
• Published: University of Oregon 2010
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/1794/10680

x, 90 p. A print copy of this thesis is available through the UO Libraries. Search the library catalog for the location and call number. === Since the electoral defeat of the Nicaraguan FSLN in 1991 and, more recently, during the municipal elections in November 2008, community violence has been increasing due partly to the importance individual community members attach to political party affiliation. This thesis explores the role of microcredit groups as potential cooperation-building associations in this context. By focusing on two cases studies of microcredit, I examine these dynamics through interviews, participant observation, and municipal and media data collection. The results show that microcredit can significantly impact levels of cooperation in Nicaraguan communities. Successful bridging of community depends in part on the perceived levels of agency, inclusion, and diverse relationship-building allowed within the structure of certain microcredit groups. Conversely, microcredit groups that remain rigid, top-down, and exclusionary risk exacerbating pre-existing social divisions based on cultural and political identity. === Committee in Charge: Dr. Derrick Hindery, Chair; Dr. Dennis Galvan; Dr. Carlos Aguirre