Latin American Indigenous Movements in the Context of Globalisation
In this article the authors highlight the extent to which indigenous peoples are losing economic and social ground as a consequence of globalisation. Both academic researchers and indigenous organizations show that market-driven global processes are increasing environmental deterioration and poverty in indigenous communities.
The article explores why many indigenous people perceive “globalization” as a euphemism for a second colonization. The authors find this is a direct consequence of national governments taking it upon themselves to negotiate natural resources on the international market with little concern about whether these resources are on indigenous, black, or peasant lands. In addition, these projects are often negotiated behind the backs of indigenous peoples, in open violation of Convention 169 of the ILO that states that indigenous peoples have the right to be consulted before decisions that affect their territories or natural resources are made.
Furthermore, the article focuses on the effects the FTA will have on indigenous communities and territories. The article highlights these main consequences of the FTAs:
· The FTAA will lead to greater destruction of the environment and the eviction of Indigenous peoples from their own territories.
· Privatisation of water and the generalized use of genetically modified foods
· Labour rights and working conditions will deteriorate
· The living conditions and health of our peoples will worsen as the privatisation of social services is accepted and implemented
· Many small- and medium-sized businesses that are still surviving will go bankrupt.
· Democratic rights in society will be further limited
· Severe poverty, inequality, and inequity will increase
· The ancestral cultures and ethical values we still have will be destroyed
The article also focuses on the effect the increase in demand for raw materials will have on indigenous people as a consequence of an increase in Multinational Corporations