Tribes in Venezuela face growing threats to traditions

Two tribes in southern Venezuela are facing a growing number of threats to their culture and way of life.

The Ye’kuana and the Sanema live in an area the size of Belgium. Due to their remote location, the tribes have maintained their subsistence lifestyle but that is changing as miners and poachers encroach on their lands.

President Hugo Chávez has prevented missionaries from visiting the area but the tribes face resistance from the government as they seek more control of their lands. The Venezuelan constitution recognizes indigenous rights.

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Clinging to the Forest Despite the Chaos (The New York Times 12/1)