18.08.2023

Indigenous People 'Under Threat' From Clean Energy Push

There is a growing resistance to large renewable energy projects among many indigenous communities, many of these groups do not have official land titles where they live, but the government does, and it too often grants titles to renewable energy companies without consultation, consent, or compensation. Since 2010, a growing allegations of displacement, harm to livelihoods, and violence against many indigenous communities. More than 50 percent of these allegations relate to operations in Central and South America, followed by 28 percent in Asia. In the Isthmus of Tehuantepec in Mexico, for example, indigenous communities have reported violations of their rights due to wind power projects. Some community members opposing these projects have faced death threats, violence, and detention. Governments must put national-level policies in place to ensure that indigenous peoples can both participate in decisions about policies that affect them and share in the benefits of renewable energy projects. This includes guaranteeing respect for their collective rights to land, territories, and resources; self-determination; and the right to practice cultural traditions. Credit: DW