Peru - July 09, 2024

Newly released images reveal a troubling sight in the Peruvian Amazon, uncontacted Mashco Piro people are seen dangerously close to logging concessions, sparking urgent calls for action to protect their territory.

The images, made public today, depict over 50 members of the Mashco Piro near the Yine village of Monte Salvado in southeastern Peru. Another group of 17 was spotted near Puerto Nuevo. These sightings highlight the proximity of the uncontacted tribe to logging activities, despite their vehement opposition to such incursions on their land.

Campaigners argue that the presence of logging companies, including Canales Tahuamanu, within the Mashco Piro territory poses severe threats. Canales Tahuamanu, certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), has constructed extensive roads for timber extraction despite longstanding concerns about its operations in indigenous lands.

Survival International, an advocacy group, is urging the FSC to revoke Canales Tahuamanu’s certification, citing the imminent risk to the Mashco Piro and the ecological integrity of the region. More than 8,000 individuals have already petitioned the FSC in support.

Alfredo Vargas Pio, President of local Indigenous organization FENAMAD, condemned the government's failure to protect Mashco Piro territory: “The presence of loggers threatens our existence and brings risks of disease and violence. Legal recognition and protection of our territorial rights are urgent.”

Caroline Pearce, Director of Survival International, underscored the gravity of the situation: “These images underscore a humanitarian crisis in the making. Immediate action is needed to halt logging activities and safeguard the Mashco Piro’s land. FSC’s continued certification of Canales Tahuamanu would undermine the credibility of forest sustainability efforts.”