In a groundbreaking move in October 2024, Colombia officially designated a vast 2.7 million-acre (1.1 million-hectare) protected territory in the southern Amazon rainforest between the Caquetá and Putumayo Rivers. This territory is specifically aimed at safeguarding the Yuri-Passé people, one of the few Indigenous groups living in voluntary isolation, with minimal or no contact with the outside world. The protected zone includes a highly restricted 2.3 million-acre (929,500-hectare) “intangible zone” where all forms of human intrusion, including economic activities like logging and mining, are strictly prohibited. This ensures the Yuri-Passé can maintain their traditional way of life free from external threats. The creation of this territory follows years of persistent advocacy from Indigenous leaders, NGOs, and government officials, culminating in the issuance of Resolution 244 by Colombia’s Ministry of the Interior.
Beyond protecting Indigenous rights, this initiative plays a critical role in conserving one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet. The protected area overlaps with the Río Puré National Park and is home to over 600 species of wildlife, including vulnerable animals like the giant armadillo and giant anteater. Buffer zones around the territory are designed to further reduce human disturbances, helping to maintain ecological balance. The leadership and involvement of Indigenous communities in establishing this territory highlight the importance of respecting traditional knowledge and local stewardship in conservation efforts. This historic step sets an important precedent for the protection of isolated Indigenous peoples across the Amazon basin and underscores Colombia’s commitment to both cultural preservation and environmental sustainability. More