Funai proposes UN monitoring of Indian situation

Érica Santana

Reporter Agência Brasil

Brasília - Taking advantage of the presence in Brazil of the UN special rapporteur for Human Rights, Hina Jilani, who is Pakistani, the acting president of the National Indian Foundation, Roberto Lustosa, proposed that UN observers monitor the evolution of the Indian situation in Brazil by accompanying the day-to-day operation of Funai.

Lustosa declared that in order to ensure that unbiased reports were made, it was important to understand that Funai is impartial in defending the Indians and in dealing with administrative procedures related to Indian problems, such as demarcation.

When Jilani asked about the delay in the demarcation of Indian reserve areas, Lustosa explained that Funai implements processes, but does not make final decisions. He also pointed out that frequently land disputes in Brazil wind up in federal courts, which effectively bring any administrative procedures to a complete halt.

Hani Jilani has been in Brazil since December 16, and has visited various areas to analyze the human rights situation.

Translation: Allen Bennett