“Achieving Indigenous autonomies and territorial governance, where self-determination is exercised, requires dismantling the mandates imposed by colonial and extractivist states and transforming them based on indigenous worldviews of harmony and collectivity. It is a path of challenges, but the only path towards a future where our rights are respected and our land is protected.”
Olivia Bisa, first female President of the Autonomous Territorial Government of the Chapra Nation
Every April in the heart of New York City, the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) convenes. Indigenous peoples from around the world gather at this pivotal event to spotlight the state of Indigenous rights on their territories and to engage in discussions about advancing their collective demands. Amazon Watch accompanies Indigenous peoples from the Amazon Basin to collaboratively create opportunities for reflection and dialogue on advancing Indigenous rights.
This year, the theme of the UNPFII was “Enhancing Indigenous Peoples’ right to self-determination in the context of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples: emphasizing the voices of Indigenous youth and their path to self-determination.” The right to self-determination is a fundamental pillar for safeguarding the rights, territories, and ways of life of Indigenous Peoples. It ensures their Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) and supports land demarcation. Autonomous governance, based on this right, structures not only act as bulwarks against encroaching threats to biodiversity but also represent the essence of Indigenous sovereignty and cultural resilience. In the face of climate change and the expansion of extractive industries, recognizing and promoting self-determination is crucial.
During the forum, we had the honor of accompanying remarkable female leaders: Olivia Bisa, the first female president of the Autonomous Territorial Government of the Chapra Nation, and Zenaida Yasacama, the first female vice president of the Confederation of Ecuadorian Indigenous Nationalities (CONAIE). These fierce advocates delivered powerful messages regarding the importance of safeguarding the right to self-determination.
“The indigenous peoples of Ecuador strongly oppose the intrusion of Canadian companies that bring chaos instead of the promised development. We cannot speak of self-determination if our territories are militarized. It is crucial that the U.N. Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues develops strong standards regarding the extraterritorial obligations of these companies, ensuring they are held accountable for their destructive actions.”
Zenaida Yasacama, first female vice president of the Confederation of Ecuadorian Indigenous Nationalities (CONAIE)
Their impassioned pleas resonated beyond the forum, gaining coverage on Canadian APTN news, the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network with broadcasting in all Canada for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people. As Amazon Watch, we have worked on the “Unmasking Canada Campaign,” in which we show a pattern of human rights violations of Canadian companies in Latin America, where Solaris, located in the Ecuadorian Amazon, and Belo Sun, located in the Brazilian Amazon, are highlighted. We are using every single space to highlight the demands of our Indigenous partners and amplify their voices.
Zenaida Yasacama also brought attention to the expansion of mining in the Amazon because of the need of critical minerals in the context of the energy transition. As we wait for the upcoming report of the UNPFII, the advanced unedited version already raises concerns about this expansion without respecting Indigenous rights, including FPIC. Moving forward, the discussion of critical minerals within the context of phasing out fossil fuels and transitioning to a more sustainable energy matrix will be pivotal. Ensuring that the rights of indigenous peoples are respected throughout this process will be key.
In addition to our advocacy within the UNPFII, Amazon Watch spearheaded two impactful events aimed at highlighting the importance of self-determination and Indigenous autonomy. The first event focused on safeguarding Indigenous self-determination in the face of climate change, while the second explored the transformative potential of Indigenous autonomous governments in reclaiming identity and sovereignty.
Our participation at the UNPFII was more than a symbolic gesture. It underscored our steadfast commitment to solidarity with Indigenous communities across the Amazon basin and beyond. Through strategic engagement and advocacy, we sought to amplify Indigenous voices, address systemic issues, and push for concrete solutions. From monitoring policy developments to accompanying Indigenous leaders, Amazon Watch is dedicated to achieving meaningful change on the ground.
However, our journey faces significant challenges. Deforestation, extractive industries, and political marginalization continue to undermine Indigenous autonomy and well-being. Despite these obstacles, we find hope in the voices of Indigenous peoples and the power of collective action.
At Amazon Watch, we remain steadfast in our commitment to this vision, guided by the principles of solidarity, respect, and justice. Together, let us amplify Indigenous voices, advance the cause of Indigenous peoples’ autonomies, and foster meaningful dialogue and collaboration. The struggle for Indigenous rights holds the promise of a more just, equitable, and sustainable future for all.
