A new law adopted in Brazil aggravates the dispossession of indigenous peoples and their territories.
A law, passed Tuesday, May 31, calls into question the limits of indigenous lands in Brazil, thus compromising their protection. Over the past decades, indigenous peoples have already been victims of forced displacement, massacres and significant reductions in their territories.
This text, approved by 283 votes against 155, establishes that the indigenous peoples are only entitled to the lands they occupied at the time of the promulgation of the 1988 Constitution. It exposes the indigenous peoples to many dangers. Their territories are already affected by dams, gold panning and agribusiness (cattle ranching and soybean cultivation), and deforestation is likely to worsen. Unfortunately, economic interests seem to prevail over environmental concerns, despite the climate extremes the world is currently experiencing.
The consequences of this law are disastrous on several levels. They cause mercury pollution, public health problems such as the spread of malaria, and environmental devastation. Indigenous peoples are in danger, but it is also crucial for us as consumers to take action.
Promote the traceability of gold
It is important to support indigenous peoples by stopping buying gold from harmful sources and promoting the use of recycled gold and synthetic diamonds. The French government can also act by promoting the traceability of gold and by requiring certifications to guarantee that the gold comes from legal sources.
Brazil’s new law endangering indigenous peoples and their lands is a global concern. By understanding the interconnectedness of environmental issues, we can act at our scale by choosing responsible alternatives and supporting traceability measures. It is crucial, especially in France where illegal gold panning is also a concern, to take measures not to contribute to devastating human and environmental systems.