Hello!
I was graciously reminded this morning that I (and this blog) have more stories to tell...if I ever updated it.
I'm beginning the dissertation writing phase, which so far means largely talking about my chapter ideas to other people in the goal of getting excited enough to start putting down words. I've gotten some good feedback on some of my framing, and I've managed to make a few people excited enough about my Mongolia as indigenous research and paper idea that hopefully they will hold me accountable to actually publish it.
But that's not nearly as fun as showing you another video insight into the weird, wonderful world of Mongolia. For my new graduate assistantship, I'm developing and teaching presentations on topics in Inner Asia. My co-worker and I have decided to combine her time in Kyrgyzstan and my time in Mongolia with the recent, local pushback in both countries against exploitation by international mining companies. So far it's been fascinating and depressing compiling sources and video clips, but I did stumble across this gem of a "safety training" video.
Oyu Tolgoi, the largest mining project in Mongolia and currently a source of great controversy, is owned in large part by the Australian-based mining company Rio Tinto. They've spent a lot of time and money on marketing themselves to the younger generations, which seems to have included making a "safety training" video in a pop music style. Furthermore, when they recite the 8 or so safety guidelines, such as the classic "make sure you have all your permits before going into restricted areas", they have the famous Mongolian rapper Quiza featured.
I especially enjoy the chorus with the loud "Hamtdaa!" (Together!). Enjoy the specialness (and the English subtitles) everybody
