Esteban Valle-Riestra Padro

Esteban Valle-Riestra Padro

Postgraduate Researcher, Development Policy & Management

 https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7477-4090

Personal profile

Research interests

As a PhD researcher, I analyse extractive governance within broader debates on development models, state capacity, and the energy transition. What connects my work is a concern with whose knowledge, interests, and historical narratives are prioritised in resource governance, and how these choices shape development pathways. My current research examines lithium policy design in Latin America, comparing how countries define strategic resources, manage environmental and social risks, and justify policy choices through particular visions of development and sustainability. Methodologically, my work combines policy analysis, elite interviews, and qualitative fieldwork. Through research, teaching, and engagement, I aim to contribute to more reflective and socially grounded approaches to extractive governance, recognising that environmental, economic, and social outcomes are intertwined. 

Teaching

Graduate Teaching Assistant, Global Development Institute, University of Manchester (2024–present)

  • Teaching support for modules including Key Issues in Environment and Development, Human Resources and Research in an International Context, Research Skills Development, and Development Research.
  • Responsibilities include seminar facilitation, student supervision, feedback on written assignments, and support for research design and qualitative methods.

Social responsibility

2023    Grant award, Global Development Institute (GDI) Innovation Fund, £2200. Project: "Weaving Roots for the Future: Mapping Indigenous Knowledge in Jujuy, Northwestern Argentina". Development of a community-based interactive map that highlights Indigenous productive activities, challenging narratives that portray their territory as suitable only for mining expansion.

Education/Academic qualification

Bachelor of Arts, Political Science & Government, Pontificia Universidad Catolica Del Peru

Master of Arts, Latin American Studies, University of Amsterdam

External positions

Research Associate, Centro de Estudios sobre Minería y Sostenibilidad (CEMS), Universidad del Pacifico

2021 → …

Areas of expertise

  • H Social Sciences (General)
  • JL Political institutions (America except United States)
  • E11 America (General)
  • G Geography (General)

Expertise related to UN Sustainable Development Goals

In 2015, UN member states agreed to 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. This person’s work contributes towards the following SDG(s):

  1. SDG 4 - Quality Education
    SDG 4 Quality Education
  2. SDG 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy
    SDG 7 Affordable and Clean Energy
  3. SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth
    SDG 8 Decent Work and Economic Growth
  4. SDG 10 - Reduced Inequalities
    SDG 10 Reduced Inequalities
  5. SDG 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production
    SDG 12 Responsible Consumption and Production
  6. SDG 13 - Climate Action
    SDG 13 Climate Action
  7. SDG 16 - Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
    SDG 16 Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
  8. SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals
    SDG 17 Partnerships for the Goals

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