Human Rights and Indigenous Rights: A brief overview of this scenario in Brazil

Human rights are universal, inalienable, and must be guaranteed to all individuals, regardless of their origin, culture, or identity. When we talk about the rights of Indigenous peoples, we are addressing a struggle that goes beyond ensuring survival; it is about dignity, respect, and the preservation of a way of life that carries centuries of history, wisdom, and a deep connection to nature.

In Brazil, the 1988 Federal Constitution is a landmark in the protection of Indigenous peoples, ensuring fundamental rights such as:

• Article 231: Recognizes the rights of Indigenous peoples over the lands they traditionally occupy and guarantees their social organization, customs, languages, beliefs, and traditions.

• Article 232: Ensures that Indigenous peoples can take legal action to defend their rights, either directly or through their representative organizations.

Moreover, Brazil is a signatory to international conventions and treaties protecting Indigenous rights, such as:

• ILO Convention No. 169 (International Labour Organization): Recognizes the rights of Indigenous and tribal peoples to self-determination, land, and prior, free, and informed consultation.

• United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (2007): States that Indigenous peoples have the right to maintain and strengthen their political, legal, economic, social, and cultural institutions, as well as their special relationship with their lands, territories, and natural resources.

  
  

Indigenous peoples in Brazil and worldwide face historical and contemporary challenges. From the invasion of their territories and resource exploitation to the ongoing fight for recognition and inclusion in public policies, this is a continuous battle against cultural erasure and violations of fundamental rights.

At APORI, we believe that defending human rights is only complete when it includes the protection and appreciation of Indigenous peoples. Every step toward respect and equity is a step toward a fairer society where diversity is celebrated rather than threatened.

Now is the time to reflect and act. Protecting Indigenous rights is protecting our shared humanity and the future of our planet.