PEASANTS, CONFLICTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES IN THE XINGU BASIN (PA)

Abstract

The aim of this article is to discuss processes of territorialization in the Xingu River basin in the Brazilian Amazon, involving different peasant groups. More specifically, we focus on processes of occupation that have unfolded in the center-southwest of the state of Pará since the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 21st century, which have led to the emergence of a forest peasantry linked to the rubber economy, whose families self-identify as beiradeiras, but have also involved the displacement of groups of migrant peasants who call themselves colonos. We analyzed how this process relates to the creation of a restrictive conservation unit, creating a conflict that continues to this day. Based on ethnographic research carried out over the last 15 years, we propose to reflect on regional dynamics, the economic actors in question and the role of the state in the processes of peasant territorialization and conflicts in question. We believe that the lack of coordination between administrative bodies perpetuates violations of rights, as does the difficulty in incorporating mechanisms such as ILO Convention 169. Finally, the lack of access to territorial rights by peasant groups contributes to the strengthening of actors linked to illegal activities, favoring land grabbing, deforestation and the looting of indigenous lands and conservation units.