Why it matters: This article highlights the impact of Peru’s growing cocaine trade on the country’s Indigenous people. The lack of presence and support from Peruvian authorities has allowed drug smugglers to infiltrate remote Indigenous territories and threaten their livelihoods and well-being.
What they are saying: Indigenous leader Fernando Aroni speaks about how the police checkpoint near his village has been abandoned for over 10 years, leaving them vulnerable to drug smugglers. The article also mentions that the cultivation of coca, the raw ingredient in cocaine, has surged in remote regions of Peru, putting Indigenous communities at risk. Experts and Indigenous communities blame the weak state security apparatus for the increasing drug trade.
The big picture: Cocaine trafficking in Peru has significantly increased in recent years, with record amounts of drugs being seized. The rise in drug cultivation and trafficking is negatively impacting Indigenous communities and their territories. The Peruvian government and international organizations are called upon to address this issue and provide support to Indigenous communities.
What to watch: It will be important to monitor how Peruvian authorities and international organizations respond to the growing cocaine trade in Peru. Efforts should focus on strengthening security measures in remote areas, providing resources and support to Indigenous communities, and addressing the root causes of participation in the drug trade.
My take: The article sheds light on the devastating consequences of Peru’s cocaine trade on Indigenous communities. It is essential for the Peruvian government to prioritize the protection and well-being of Indigenous people by addressing the security gaps, promoting sustainable development in these areas, and providing the necessary support to combat drug trafficking. The international community should also collaborate with Peru to address this issue and ensure the rights and livelihoods of Indigenous communities are protected.
