Consultation and protection mechanisms for indigenous communities in road project areas are coordinated

Asuncion, IP Agency.- Technicians and authorities from the Ministry of Public Works (MOPC) and the Paraguayan Indigenous Institute (INDI) analyzed the implementation of consultation and protection mechanisms for indigenous communities in areas of influence of significant road projects.

It was agreed to establish bilateral cooperation to strengthen the capacities of technicians from both institutions in the implementation of Decree 1039/2018, which establishes the Process of Consultation and Free, Prior and Informed Consent with indigenous peoples.

The situation of communities in the areas of influence of routes PY12, PY09, Section 3 of the Bioceanic Highway and the Carmelo Peralta – Puerto Murtinho Bridge was analyzed. These cases served as a basis for discussing broader strategies for the protection of indigenous rights in future projects, reported the MOPC.

Technical cooperation under this agreement will focus on improving consultation procedures, identifying and assessing impacts on indigenous communities, developing mitigation strategies, and promoting more effective and culturally appropriate communication with these communities.

Senior officials from both institutions participated, including the president of INDI and directors of areas related to the protection of indigenous peoples, territorial management and socio-environmental management. On behalf of MOPC, the director of Socio-Environmental Management (DGSA), Attorney Guadalupe Rivas, the Social Coordinator Eng. Gustavo da Silva, the head of the Department of Indigenous Peoples, María Acela Olmedo and Lic. Nelson Peña, from the Project Execution Unit – Inter-American Development Bank (UEP-IDB) were present.