Vatican City: Church representatives and indigenous rights activists have launched a global platform calling for divestment from mining activities that harm local communities in Latin America. The initiative was presented on Friday at the Holy See Press Office as a joint effort to promote justice and environmental protection.
The platform is led by Iglesias y Minería, an ecumenical network that supports communities affected by extractive industries. It aims to encourage investors, institutions and organisations to withdraw financial support from mining projects that damage ecosystems and violate human rights.
Speaking at the launch, Yolanda Flores, an Aymara leader from Peru, shared the struggles faced by indigenous communities living near mining areas. She highlighted serious concerns about pollution and health risks caused by heavy metals. She called for proper investigations into contamination, accountability for those financing mining operations, and greater support for affected communities, including education and pastoral care.
Cardinal Fabio Baggio said that mining activities have often taken place without consulting local populations and without respect for environmental limits. He described the new platform as a moral response rooted in faith and human dignity. He stressed that ignoring the suffering of affected communities is not an option and urged people to listen to those directly impacted.
Cardinal Álvaro Ramazzini from Guatemala spoke about cases where mining companies acquired indigenous land at very low prices and carried out legal operations that did not benefit local people. He warned that such practices fail to ensure fairness and justice, especially for poor communities.
From Brazil, Bishop Vicente Ferreira pointed to growing global demand for minerals as a key driver of mining expansion in Latin America. He raised concerns about what he called false solutions linked to green economic models and warned of increasing pressure on indigenous territories due to demand for rare earth minerals. He also cautioned communities against being influenced by financial incentives that may harm their long term well being.
Religious leaders also highlighted the social impact of mining, especially on children. Sister Anneliese Herzig called for stronger protection measures and policy changes, while Sister Maamalifar Poreku emphasised the need for deeper transformation in economic systems. She said the ecological crisis requires bold leadership and a shift in how resources are used and valued.
Father Dario Bossi, a coordinator of the network, explained that the platform will serve as a space for sharing information, studying financial systems linked to mining, and promoting cooperation among groups worldwide. He noted that large mining companies continue to receive massive funding from international banks and investors.
He added that many Church and social organisations now see divestment as a practical and ethical way to respond to environmental damage and human rights violations.