In a fervent appeal, Indigenous leaders from the Peruvian Amazon have brought their plea against oil and gas projects to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights. They argue these projects encroach on their rights, jeopardising not just their land, but also their health and food security, breaching international obligations to consult Indigenous communities. Represented by the Interethnic Association for the Development of the Peruvian Rainforest (AIDESEP), they highlight looming risks for uncontacted Indigenous groups and particularly for Indigenous women amidst these exploitative ventures.
During the hearing, the Peruvian government defended its commitment to human rights, asserting it is a democratic state. However, Julio Cusurichi Palacios of AIDESEP contested these claims, noting that the reality starkly contradicts the government’s assertions. “The rights of Indigenous peoples are not being respected,” he lamented, pointing out ongoing river pollution, threats to uncontacted tribes, and increasingly lax environmental regulations.
Despite government denials, alarming reports reveal that approximately 75% of the Peruvian Amazon—home to 21 Indigenous groups—is now earmarked for oil and gas exploration, often overlapping with Indigenous territories. Environmental lawyer Cesar Ipenza remarked on the worsening situation due to prioritisation of extractive industries in sensitive areas, despite the government’s reassurances that all is well.
The Commission has mandated the Peruvian government to submit written responses regarding oil spill protocols and community support, as documented oil spills in the Amazon have reached upwards of 831. Furthermore, the existence of 20 uncontacted tribes, including the vulnerable Mashco-Piro, raises concerns about their safety, especially following recent deadly encounters resulting from encroachment by logging activities.
With inadequacies in receiving justice domestically, Indigenous leaders are increasingly leaning towards international platforms like the Commission. As Teresa Mayo from Survival International aptly noted, they seek to ensure Peru adheres to the internationally committed laws and treaties crucial for safeguarding their rights and territories.
Indigenous leaders from the Peruvian Amazon presented evidence against oil and gas projects at the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, claiming these projects violate their rights and endanger their health and territories. Despite government claims of respect for human rights, the leaders detailed ongoing environmental degradation and danger to uncontacted tribes. The commission has demanded the government respond to the allegations, particularly concerning oil spill protocols and support for impacted communities.
The testimony of Indigenous leaders at the Inter-American Commission unveils significant concerns regarding oil and gas exploration in Peru. Their call for attention reflects a desperate need for protection against rights violations, environmental damage, and socio-economic impacts. The Peruvian government’s assurances stand in stark contrast to the lived experiences reported by these communities, highlighting a growing gap between state policies and the harsh realities faced by Indigenous peoples in the Amazon.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
