![](https://braziltimes.news/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/0403-1.jpg)
In a bold move that has drawn international attention, Brazilian Federal Deputy Gustavo Gayer filed a complaint against President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva at the International Criminal Court in The Hague on Friday, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting the Yanomami people. This indigenous group has seen a tragic increase in mortality rates, attributed to the failure of the current administration to provide essential services and protections.
Gayer, taking to social media to announce his action, described his complaint as “well-founded,” labeling Lula da Silva as a “genocidaire” responsible for the deaths. The move has sparked widespread debate and brought the plight of the Yanomami into the limelight.
Under President Lula’s tenure, there has been a notable spike in the number of indigenous fatalities, a stark contrast to the situation under the previous government. Reports from several national media outlets indicate that the situation has drastically worsened, casting a shadow over Brazil’s commitment to indigenous rights and welfare.
![](https://braziltimes.news/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/lula-da-silva-1024x576.jpg)
Brazilian socio-environmental institutes have been vocal critics of the government’s handling of the crisis. The Instituto Socioambiental (ISA), among others, has condemned the federal government’s response, calling for a more organized and concerted approach to address the deep-seated issues facing the Yanomami.
ISA researcher Estêvão Senra underscored the lack of coordination and joint action across government ministries as a significant failing. “We had already warned of the need for a joint effort, with a convening power. That was not what we got,” he said, pointing to the severity of the crisis.
The situation has reached alarming levels, with child mortality rates in Yanomami territory now comparable to those in countries with the highest levels of mortality worldwide. Government data reveals a sharp increase in deaths in the latter half of last year. From June 23 onwards, 136 deaths were recorded, escalating to an additional 172 in the following five months. Moreover, instances of malaria, influenza, and diarrheal diseases have surged, compounding the humanitarian disaster.
This bold legal move by Congressman Gayer marks a pivotal moment in Brazil’s politics, spotlighting the grave humanitarian situation of the Yanomami and putting President Lula’s administration under rigorous international scrutiny. As the world watches, the hope is for swift action and a coordinated response to avert further loss of life and ensure the survival and well-being of the Yanomami people.
![](https://braziltimes.news/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/0403-1-768x1024.jpg)
![](https://braziltimes.news/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/0403-2.jpg)
![](https://braziltimes.news/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/0403-3.jpg)
Source: Jornal da Cidade Online