The resurgence of commons and the governance of traditional commons systems at risk: The case of Enirio-Aralar

Abstract

The study of commons has resurged vigorously. In this context the analysis of traditional grazing commons whose governance is subject to great challenges associated with changing socio-economic conditions and the co-existence of multiple uses is of particular interest. In this article we analyze the case of Eniriro-Aralar Community (Gipuzkoa, Basque Country), where a strong socio-ecological conflict emerged due to the multiple uses that co-exist in the area and the governance of its traditional common systems. The study shows that the subsistence of the area as a common will depend in the adaptive capacity of the community to the increasing intervention of European and regional institutions in rural planning and the satisfaction of new social demands.