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Parliamentary question - E-001877/2019(ASW)Parliamentary question
E-001877/2019(ASW)

Answer given by High Representative/Vice-President Mogherini

The brutal triple murder which involved Ms Dilma Ferreira Silva, long-term land activist affiliated to the Movement of People Affected by Dams in Brazil, is another shocking case of attack against human rights defenders in Brazil. In the absence of procedures guaranteeing local participation and consultation as well as due compensation, land related conflicts often become a source of violence.

The EU expresses condolences to the families and friends of the victims and supports the calls expressed by various stakeholders, including the South American Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, for holding investigations into this and other murders of human rights defenders in Brazil and for holding the perpetrators responsible. Decisive action is needed from the Brazilian authorities in a context of increased hostility against social movements in Brazil.

Moreover, given the recent tragic accidents involving dams in Brazil which caused human as well as environmental loss, it is important that authorities guarantee the rights of communities affected by dams, as well as the protection of their leaders and activists.

The EU will continue to follow closely the investigation into this murder and will stay in contact with civil society organisations and human rights defenders. The EU supported (2013-2015) the Movement of People affected by Dams through a EUR 600 000 project aimed at reducing the risk of human rights violations and impoverishment of communities affected by dams in Brazil, with specific attention to women.

Last updated: 2 July 2019
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