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In a significant advancement for Indigenous rights, Colombia has designated its first officially recognized territory aimed at protecting Indigenous peoples living in voluntary isolation. This newly established area spans over one million hectares between the Caquetá and Putumayo Rivers in the Amazonas department and is home to the uncontacted Yuri-Passé people.
The creation of this territory reflects Colombia’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and autonomy of Indigenous groups who have chosen to remain separated from modern society. The resolution, supported by the Amazon Conservation Team, prohibits all forms of economic development and prevents forced human contact, thereby ensuring the protection of these vulnerable communities.
This landmark decision builds upon a foundation laid by the establishment of the Río Puré National Park in 2002, which was created to protect the region long before the presence of uncontacted peoples was officially acknowledged by the Ministry of Interior in 2023. The new territory also includes a buffer zone designed to minimize outside disturbances, reinforcing its protective measures.
Local Indigenous communities have been aware of the existence of these isolated peoples for decades, often remaining silent due to distrust of government intervention. The urgency for protection intensified in the 2010s amid growing threats from mining and organized crime. In response, neighboring Indigenous communities advocated for government action, leading to research that confirmed the presence of the Yuri-Passé.
A key aspect of this initiative is the leadership role that Indigenous communities played in shaping the territory’s designation. The process was largely driven by Indigenous people, rather than government authorities, highlighting the importance of their involvement in conservation efforts. A 2018 government decree enabled the establishment of “intangible zones” specifically for uncontacted peoples, allowing civil society organizations and Indigenous leaders to collaborate in creating the new territory.
In addition to its cultural significance, the protected area is a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 600 recorded species, including the Oncilla, giant armadillo, and giant anteater. However, the region faces ongoing threats, particularly due to a lack of government presence in the Río Puré National Park since 2019, which has been compounded by security issues linked to organized crime. Indigenous communities have taken on monitoring responsibilities, utilizing remote surveillance technology to help protect the area.
The establishment of this territory underscores the need for stronger government involvement in safeguarding both the uncontacted groups and the critical ecosystems they inhabit. Colombia’s new protected territory serves as a powerful example of what can be achieved when Indigenous knowledge, community advocacy, and government action align to promote sustainable stewardship of both human rights and environmental conservation.
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