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(Re)making the margins: Frontier assemblages and brokerage in Hambantota, Sri Lanka

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  • Jonathan Goodhand
  • Oliver Walton

Abstract

This article examines the dynamics of brokerage surrounding two moments of rupture (the tsunami and the end of the war) in Hambantota, a district in southern Sri Lanka and a key site of frontier development. We contrast the two development assemblages that emerged from these moments, examining how structural transformations shape the dynamics of brokerage, and how brokers mediate the effects of these transformations. By tracing the shifting fortunes of a local government broker, we reveal the changing power dynamics within these two assemblages, whilst highlighting how moments of rupture both open and shut down brokerage spaces.

Suggested Citation

  • Jonathan Goodhand & Oliver Walton, 2023. "(Re)making the margins: Frontier assemblages and brokerage in Hambantota, Sri Lanka," Journal of International Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 35(3), pages 459-477, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:jintdv:v:35:y:2023:i:3:p:459-477
    DOI: 10.1002/jid.3651
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Jan Pospisil & Alina Rocha Menocal & Christine Bell & Jan Pospisil, 2017. "Navigating Inclusion in Transitions from Conflict: The Formalised Political Unsettlement," Journal of International Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 29(5), pages 576-593, July.
    2. Rasmussen, Mattias Borg & Lund, Christian, 2018. "Reconfiguring Frontier Spaces: The territorialization of resource control," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 101(C), pages 388-399.
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    Cited by:

    1. Mahvish Shami, 2024. "What Do Brokers Provide for Urban Slums?," Journal of International Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 36(5), pages 2252-2269, July.

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