The Brazilian federal government announced on Monday, September 23, that it would revoke a decree from President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva which designated three waterways in the Amazon as part of the National Privatization Program. This decision was influenced by the strong opposition from indigenous peoples inhabiting the regions affected by the proposed concessions. The waterways in question included the Madeira River, Tocantins River, and Tapajós River, totaling over 3,000 kilometers of waterways intended for privatization, raising concerns over environmental and social impacts.

Indigenous groups, comprised of around 14 different ethnicities, took significant action by occupying the premises of the Cargill company in Santarém, Pará, on January 23, in protest against dredging initiatives and other projects they believe threaten their land and livelihood. This occupation highlighted the tensions between government policies geared towards economic development and the rights and territories of indigenous communities, who have been vocal about preserving their environment and preventing exploitation.

The government's reversal is marked as a notable win for indigenous activists who have been fighting against the encroachment of their lands and the ecological degradation associated with privatization schemes. As the government seeks to balance economic interests with respecting indigenous rights, this situation underscores ongoing challenges in addressing the rights of marginalized communities in Brazil's development agenda.