Mongabay · Climate & nature

Ranchers Block Indigenous Land Demarcation in Brazil

Rural producers in Brazil's Pará state are blocking government officials from demarcating the Paquiçamba Indigenous Land, a process required for its official approval. The blockade, supported by local politicians, aims to prevent the Indigenous Affairs Agency (Funai) from marking the boundaries of the territory traditionally occupied by the Juruna (Yudjá) people.

The protestors want to prevent Funai from physically marking the boundaries of Paquiçamba, a necessary step before presidential approval and formal registration. This demarcation was a condition for the Belo Monte hydroelectric project's environmental licensing.

A Funai spokesperson stated that the blockades have delayed the physical demarcation, including georeferencing and boundary marker placement. Funai is pursuing legal action to ensure the work can continue safely.

Clashes have occurred between blockaders and federal agents, even with support from the National Public Security Force, interrupting demarcation efforts.

A Juruna Indigenous person stated that the protesters are attempting to deny her community legal land rights, which they have sought for years. She emphasized that the land already has owners.

The blockaders are reportedly using the recent general election period to advance their agendas and create conflict with non-Indigenous residents.

A local mayor expressed support for the blockaders, calling Funai's actions an affront to rural producers. His office did not respond to a request for comment.

Paquiçamba is near the Ituna/Itatá Indigenous Land, which has also faced pressure, with over 500 people invading the area, opening roads, starting fires, and threatening federal agents.

AI-samenvatting op basis van de bron.