Brazil

Brazil is not a friendly place for those who, without any economic or political power, fight to preserve their lives and nature. It is the world champion when it comes to threats and attacks against persons who defend the environment. Violence linked to the struggle over rural land is a permanent and decisive factor in social relations in the country. In the Amazonian states of Rondonia and Maranhao we reported on cases of invasions of indigenous territories and harassment against traditional communities. We talked to leaders who have been threatened for their resistance and we documented the social and environmental degradation caused by deforestation and infrastructure projects.