Ecuador's Highest Court Empowers Indigenous Communities in Land-Use Decisions

Quito, February 5—Ecuador's highest court has ruled that all its fourteen recognized indigenous communities must have greater influence over oil, mining, and extractive projects that impact their lands. Indigenous land covers more than 70% of the Amazon basin; enactment of this law serves as a major setback to President Guillermo Lasso's intentions of further expanding oil production and mining in the nation.

If opposed by the indigenous groups, the court notes that governments may only proceed with extractive projects in "exceptional cases." Furthermore, the court also underscores that no project may proceed if it excessively undermines the collective rights of communities and nature.

Government officials in Ecuador have yet to respond to this ruling.

Research increasingly indicates that biodiversity and animal life thrive on lands managed by indigenous people. This represents over a quarter of the world's territories.

Since 2020, Ecuador has witnessed two significant oil spills in the Amazon, with the most recent occurring just last week.

This legislation underscores a victory for indigenous communities and environmental conservation in Ecuador.

---

Einhorn, Caitrin. New York Times. "Ecuador Court Gives Indigenous Groups a Boost in Mining and Drilling Disputes". https://www.nytimes.com/2022/02/04/climate/ecuador-indigenous-constitutional-court.html. February 4, 2022. [Accessed: February 5, 2022].

Edited by Ansh Pincha