In a historic win for indigenous communities in the Amazon of Peru, a judge ruled that the state-owned petroleum company Petroperu cannot conduct oil exploration and exploitation in specific plots of land in the Sierra del Divisor national park (established in 2015).
The demand was placed in 2017 after Peru’s ministry of energy and Petroperu created plans to create “oil zones” within the park. Legal action was taken by one of the largest indigenous community organizations of the region, Organización Regional de Pueblos IndÃgenas del Oriente (ORPIO). The ruling, which disables Petroperu from authorizing any exploration or exploitation of the land, is historic because it’s the first in favor of indigenous groups that live in voluntary isolation.
The now protected areas are part of the Ucayali and Loreto regions close to the border with Brazil. The uncontacted groups in this region were recognized by the Peruvian state in 2018 and 2019. These plots of land were owned by private petroleum companies and were given back to the state when the companies shut down.
The judge for the case ruled that the Peruvian state must establish a “strict protection zone” safeguarding the area, according to Reuters.
Cover photo: Andina
Now that you're here:
We're asking you, our reader, to make a contribution in support of our digital guide in order to keep informing, updating and inspiring people to visit Peru. Why now? In our near 20-year journey as the leading English-language source on travel in Peru, we've had our fair share of ups and downs-but nothing quite like the challenges brought forth in the first quarter of 2020.
By adapting to the changing face of the tourism and travel industry (on both local and international levels), we have no doubt we will come out stronger-especially with the support of our community. Because you will travel again, and we will be ready to show you the best of Peru.
Your financial support means we can keep sharing the best of Peru through high-quality stories, videos and insights provided by our dedicated team of contributors and editors based in Peru. And of course, We are here to answer your questions and help whenever you need us.
As well, it makes possible our commitment to support local and small businesses that make your visit an unforgettable one. Your support will help the people working in these industries get back on their feet once the world allows us to make our dream of enjoying everything Peru has to offer a reality again-from its mouthwatering gastronomy, thriving Amazon and archaeological wonders such as Machu Picchu.
Together, we will find a way through this. As a member of our community, your contribution, however big or small, is valuable.
Support Traveling & Living in Peru from as little as $1 - and it only takes a minute. Thank you!
