At the 17th Session of the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Geneva, I had the privilege to speak on behalf of the Alliance in Defense of Territories between the Kayapó, Yanomami, and Munduruku Peoples. Together with our partners at the Amazon Cooperation Network, we addressed the pressing issue of illegal gold mining in the Brazilian Amazon.
Illegal gold mining poses severe threats to the Indigenous Peoples of the Amazon Basin, including those living in voluntary isolation. Their traditional lands are increasingly invaded, leading to devastating environmental impacts such as mercury contamination of rivers and fish.
We have ample evidence linking mercury contamination to serious and ongoing human rights violations. Indigenous communities, who rely on fishing for sustenance, bear disproportionate health risks from mercury exposure.
It is imperative that the gold industry, businesses, and consumers acknowledge the significant human rights costs associated with the use of mercury. These violations cannot be tolerated. Member States must step up to their responsibility to regulate businesses effectively, ensuring that human rights are protected and that consumers are not unwittingly contributing to these violations through their purchases.
Together, we must advocate for sustainable practices that respect Indigenous rights and preserve the Amazon’s biodiversity for future generations.
