Galina Diomidova and Dorina Prishkol'nik
Institute of Geography, Russian Academy of Sciences
109017 Moscow, Staromonetny pereulok, 29
RUSSIA
TEL: (095) 238-91-21
FAX: (095) 230-20-90
The large-scale exploitation of the Brazilian Amazonia is viewed with concern due to the planet-wide geo-ecological importance of the area. The status of indigenous people, however, does not receive the same attention.
Mass migration and intensive economic activities which started in the Brazilian Amazonia in the 1970s damage ecosystems of the humid-tropical forest which is the habitat for indigenous peoples of Latin America. The very existence of native Indians is endangered. Mortality of the native population has risen by several times, mainly from illnesses and epidemics new to this tropical area. The most vulnerable strata of the Indian population are women - bearers of genofund - and children. With practical liquidation of the basis of the indigenous economic life, native Indians lose their labor skills.
Idealization of the patriarchal life of the indigenous people of selva is certainly improper. Economic development of tropical areas is necessary for several reasons. However, the Indian population is the main ethno-cultural element of the areas of new exploitation in Latin America. In order to preserve environmental balance in Amazonia, one should pay particular attention to their experience and traditional life-style.
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