South American Funds discuss Amazon challenges at FOSPA

The 9th edition of the Pan-Amazonian Social Forum (FOSPA) took place from June 12 to 15 in the cities of Rurrenabaque and San Buenaventura, Bolivia, bringing together activists and organizations from the nine countries that make up the Pan-Amazon region. With support from the Fundación Socioambiental Semilla, a Bolivian fund member of Alianza, a delegation of 22 people was formed, with representatives from Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana, with the aim of supporting discussions, articulations, and actions related to the Amazon basin region that spans these countries.

FOSPA aims to be a tool for articulating the agendas of Amazonian organizations and networks, making proposals visible for the defense of the Amazon, combating climate change, and promoting intercultural coexistence. During its 9th edition, debates were held on the demands of the territories and proposed solutions to the problems faced by these populations. “It was an opportunity for learning, to articulate with other organizations, generating possibilities for new alliances and support,” commented Nilda Oporto from Fundación Semilla, who attended the event.

The struggles of communities facing the impact of large energy projects in the Amazon, the inclusion of Afro-American populations in gender issues, territorial defense, and food security were central points of debate. According to Ian Bravo from Fondo Socioambiental del Perú, FOSPA represents an important development for groups to articulate knowledge and experiences. “This space allows us to learn more about other realities. I believe these moments are very valuable for getting to know each other better, understanding how we work, and sharing experiences,” concluded Ian.

Read the final declaration of the Forum here (only in Spanish). To learn more about the Forum, visit the FOSPA website here.