This report, prepared by organizations from six Amazonian countries—Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela—highlights the severe impacts of illegal gold mining in the Amazon, with a focus on human rights violations and environmental destruction. The illegal mining, which often occurs in protected Indigenous territories and conservation areas, causes extensive deforestation, mercury contamination of rivers, and loss of biodiversity. The report underscores the health risks to local and Indigenous populations, particularly from mercury accumulation in fish, as well as the violence and displacement these communities face. Criminal networks, corruption, and weak state enforcement have enabled the spread of illegal mining activities.
The report calls for stronger state actions to prevent and address the harmful effects of illegal mining, including improved regulatory frameworks, better enforcement of the Minamata Convention on mercury use, and enhanced cooperation among Amazonian countries. It emphasizes the importance of protecting Indigenous territories, promoting Indigenous participation in environmental governance, and establishing regional monitoring and sanctioning systems. Additionally, it advocates for reducing mercury use in mining, safeguarding the rights of local and Indigenous communities, and supporting environmental defenders at risk.
