Indigenous Peoples struggle to survive in Colombia

[cory777]

Source: Amnesty International

23 February 2010

AI Index: PRE01/054/2010

Amnesty International today denounced an increase in attacks against Indigenous Peoples across Colombia during 2009, which is leaving many communities struggling for survival.

The organization blamed guerrilla groups, the security forces and paramilitaries for the abuses – which include killings, enforced disappearances and kidnappings, threats, sexual abuse of women, recruitment of child soldiers, forced displacement and persecution of Indigenous leaders.

“Indigenous Peoples are increasingly under attack in Colombia,” said Marcelo Pollack, Colombia Researcher at Amnesty International. “They are being killed and threatened, forced to participate in the armed conflict, and being kicked out of their lands.”

“It is time for the Colombian government to take its obligations seriously and take immediate action to protect Indigenous Peoples.”

According to figures from the National Indigenous Organization of Colombia, at least 114 Indigenous women, men and children were killed and thousands forcibly displaced in 2009 alone.

Amnesty International also said crimes committed against Indigenous Peoples are rarely investigated by the authorities.

Read more: http://www.amnesty.org/for-media/press-releases/indigenous-peoples-struggle-survive-colombia-2010-02-23

[SpiralHawk]

1. Same as it ever was

At least they don't show up and pompously read the Pope's 'requiremento' any more to pretend there is some official Godly justification for their evil doing. Now the hate, greed, and fear is generally more naked.

[roody]

2. The government of Colombia wants the mineral wealth

exploited on indigenous lands. It is not going to take its obligations seriously.

[BeHereNow]

3. Read the most recent communication from the Kogi of Colombia here:

http://www.taironatrust.org/
They've been trying to warn us for years.

BHN