A decisive ruling by Brazil’s Supreme Court rejects the controversial “Marco Temporal,” protecting the territorial rights of indigenous peoples and supporting the fight for the conservation of ancestral lands

With a historic ruling in favor of indigenous rights in Brazil, on September 21, 2023, the country’s Supreme Court rejected the so-called “Marco Temporal.” The “Marco Temporal” is a legal concept in Brazil that sets a cut-off date of October 5, 1988, for recognizing the territorial rights of indigenous communities. According to this theory, indigenous peoples would have rights only to the lands they occupied before this date, a measure that could have significantly limited the land rights of indigenous communities.

This decision marks a significant victory for indigenous communities, including the Karipuna, as well as for advocates of environmental and social justice.

The legislation could have had devastating consequences for indigenous territorial rights, effectively legalizing the illegal occupation of ancestral lands by farmers and businesses.

Indigenous leader Adriano Karipuna has played a pivotal role in the fight against these threats to territorial rights. Representing the Karipuna community, Adriano has brought the issue to international attention, exposing aggressions and violence while seeking support and protection for his people.

The Supreme Court’s decision has been met with relief and joy by indigenous communities and organizations supporting their cause, such as Greenpeace Italy. This verdict not only protects the territorial rights of indigenous peoples but also contributes to the conservation of the Amazon, a crucial region for global biodiversity and the fight against climate change.

The rejection of the “Marco Temporal” represents a step forward in protecting the rights of indigenous peoples and preserving their ancestral lands. Yet, the struggle continues, as there are still numerous challenges to address in ensuring the security and well-being of indigenous communities in Brazil.

In response to this victory, indigenous representatives and environmental organizations emphasize the importance of staying vigilant and continuing to work together to counter the pressures and threats to the preservation of the Amazon and its original inhabitants.

The positive outcome of this legal battle is encouraging for all those committed to defending human and environmental rights. The contributions of individuals like Adriano Karipuna and the collaborative actions of organisations such as Greenpeace and other support groups are crucial for building a fairer and more sustainable future.

The court victory is a beacon of hope and a reminder to stay vigilant about the situation of indigenous peoples in Brazil and the threats to their lands and way of life. The unity and resilience of indigenous communities, along with international support, are key elements in ensuring respect for human rights and the protection of the environment in this unique region of the world.