Movimentos sociais do campo e sua contribuição para a agroecologia no Oeste do Paraná

Abstract

The study aimed to analyze the historical relationship between rural social movements and the agroecological production model in the western region of Paraná, as well as to explore the social construction and organizational forms of these movements. Specific objectives were established, including analyzing the trajectory and process of social movements' construction in the region and describing the importance and relationships between the movements and agroecological practices. To execute this work, a methodology combining literature review and interviews with three individuals involved in rural social movements in the western region of Paraná in the 1980s and 1990s was adopted. The literature review involved investigating articles and books on the subject to identify the main theoretical and practical contributions in this field of study. The combination of these methodological approaches allowed for a broad and critical analysis of the development of agroecology promoted by rural social movements. The relationship between rural social movements and agroecology positively impacts various aspects related to the human community, including food security and sovereignty, the empowerment of women in rural areas, rural education, health, income generation, biodiversity conservation, and soil preservation. Although the idea of agroecological transition is relatively recent and in opposition to the conventional agriculture model, it has been the subject of political debates. Despite the difficulties and challenges, the history behind the struggles of rural social movements is directly linked to the concept of agroecology, which incorporates broader and more complex aspects such as economic, ecological, social, cultural, political, and ethical elements.