Brazil Violence against Journalists and Activists 2022-06-21

2022-06-21

TAGS
Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Partial Answer
Kerry McCarthy Lab
Bristol East
Context
The question follows the tragic disappearance of Dom Phillips and Bruno Pereira in the Amazon region. In 2020 alone, at least 182 indigenous activists and 20 environmental campaigners were killed.
What recent assessment has been made on trends in violence against journalists, environmental campaigners, and indigenous activists in Brazil? The relentless drive to develop the Amazon rainforest is behind these murders. What are the Government doing to put maximum pressure on the Bolsonaro Government?
Attacks on environmental activists and indigenous rights defenders in Brazil have increased, and we raise concerns regularly with the Government. We engage regularly with indigenous leaders and civil society organisations. We are committed to defending human rights and continue monitoring developments around indigenous rights. The UK has committed £259 million and an additional £3 billion at COP for protecting the Amazon.
Assessment & feedback
The specifics of putting maximum pressure on the Bolsonaro Government were not addressed
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Kerry McCarthy Lab
Bristol East
Context
Dom Phillips and Bruno Pereira's disappearance has raised concerns about the safety of environmentalists. In 2020, at least 182 indigenous activists were killed.
Will the Government work with international authorities to investigate Dom Phillips' case swiftly and transparently without interference? This is not just for justice but to protect future journalists and environmentalists doing important work.
We support the case being investigated. There has been close contact between local and national police in Brazil with our embassy team on the ground. It is important that those responsible for this crime are held accountable.
Assessment & feedback
The question specifically asked about working with international authorities, but the answer only mentions Brazilian officials without addressing international cooperation
Response accuracy
Q3 Direct Answer
Context
Dom Phillips was a journalist and environmentalist working on reporting deforestation in Brazil. His disappearance has raised concerns about the safety of such activists.
What steps is the Department taking to support Dom's family through diplomatic channels during this difficult time? This includes providing consular assistance.
We have been in close contact with members of Dom's family. We continue to offer consular support through this difficult time and any related processes following his tragic event.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q4 Direct Answer
Cat Smith Lab
Lancaster and Wyre
Context
Dom Phillips, a journalist from Lancaster, disappeared while investigating deforestation in Brazil. His work exposed environmental damage that impacts everyone globally.
What steps is the Department taking to provide consular support to Dom's family through diplomatic means during this difficult period?
We have been in close contact with members of Dom's family. We will continue to give consular support at this time and through any related processes following this tragic event.
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy