The Peruvian government has allowed two oil companies to explore oil in remote parts of the Amazonian forests inhabited by uncontacted tribes.
The decision comes after a Peruvian government spokesperson suggested these tribes do not exist, claiming there was "no firm proof" of their existence. The move is despite the Ecuadorian government's recent announcement of plans for a bilateral agreement with Peru to protect the indigenous people who live along the Peru-Ecuador borders. Experts believe that there are at least 15 uncontacted tribes in Peru. "The Peruvian government's decision to enter this part of the Amazon could spell disaster for these Indians," says Stephen Corry, director of Survival International, an international ngo working on indigenous people's issues.
Survival has listed 10 countries--Indonesia, Australia, Canada, the us , New Zealand, Botswana, Paraguay, Brazil, Malaysia and Peru--who have violated the rights of the indigenous people in 2007.
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