What's Happening?
In the Trombetas River region of Brazil, over 300 families in the Alto Trombetas 1 Quilombo were excluded from consultations regarding the New Mines Project by Mineração Rio do Norte. The project, which involves expanding mining operations, has been criticized
for not adhering to the International Labour Organization Convention 169, which mandates free, prior, and informed consent from affected communities. Despite the presence of 15 Quilombola communities in the area, only those within 10 kilometers of the project were consulted. The exclusion has raised concerns about the impact on local communities and the environment.
Why It's Important?
The exclusion of Quilombola communities from consultations on the New Mines Project highlights significant issues related to indigenous rights and environmental justice. The project threatens the cultural heritage and livelihoods of these communities, who have preserved the forest for generations. The lack of proper consultation undermines international agreements and sets a concerning precedent for future projects. The situation underscores the need for more inclusive and transparent decision-making processes that respect the rights of indigenous and local communities.
