Digital media narratives of care and biopolitics in the context of environmental sacrifice zones in Chile: Mujeres de Zonas de Sacrificio en Resistencia

This article examines the role of women activists in Chilean sacrifice zones, focusing on their resistance strategies and digital media narratives. The study addresses a critical gap in environmental justice research by exploring the intersection of gender, care ethics and biopolitics in the context of socio-environmental struggles. While previous studies have analysed the impacts of industrial pollution in these regions, little attention has been given to the feminist methodologies and digital activism employed by local women. The research uses a qualitative approach through digital ethnography and discourse analysis, examining online narratives produced by Mujeres de Zonas de Sacrificio en Resistencia (MUZOSARE). Social media content and press articles were analysed to understand how these activists construct and communicate resistance and care. Findings reveal that MUZOSARE members develop an ethic of care that extends beyond the domestic sphere, framing their activism as a collective responsibility for environmental and community well-being. Their digital activism challenges dominant media narratives, increases visibility and fosters transnational solidarity. However, tensions between activist and mainstream representations highlight ongoing struggles for legitimacy. This study contributes to feminist political ecology and environmental justice by demonstrating how digital media serves as a crucial space for contesting necropolitical governance in sacrifice zones.