During his time in office, President Jair Bolsonaro, has systematically weakened Brazil’s environmental laws and regulations. His government has deprived authorities of funding and staff, and kept employees from speaking to the press. This all has been playing into the hands of those who continue to exploit the ecosystem: Loggers, gold miners, cattle ranchers as well as international companies. Large parts of the Amazon are now lawless territories where organized crime has taken control.
The recent murders of journalists like Dom Phillips and researcher Bruno Pereira show how speaking out against the destruction can cost you your life. And Brazil's indigenous peoples, the traditional guardians of this globally imporatant ecosystem, are bearing the brunt.
Authors: Anne Herrberg, Joao Soares / presenter: Elliot Douglas