Clearing Pizarro

Abstract

Abstract

In the province of Salta, Argentina, a law in 2003 that removed the protected status from a nature reserve has brought about great social conflict. This conflict, in General Pizarro, department of Anta, Salta, involved the creole population, who used these lands intensively, the Eben Ezer Wichi Indian community, and the provincial authorities. The government argued that the land had suffered such deterioration that it was no longer fit to be considered a nature reserve. These actions took place during what was known as the South American soya boom, making these lands, if cleared, very attractive for agriculture. The creole population and the Wichi community, seeing their means of life endangered, requested support to protect their rights at the National Institute of Indigenous Affairs, the National Human Rights Office, the University of Salta, and the National Park Administration (NPA).