“This is a victory of love, of hope, of truth, of freedom, and of our fragile democracy that is now being strengthened.”
– Sonia Guajajara, Congresswoman-elect

In the most important election for the planet, which defined the future of the Amazon and therefore of all humanity, Brazilians chose democracy and elected Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, putting an end to the Bolsonaro nightmare. Civil society, Indigenous communities, and the environmental movement are celebrating renewed hope for the Amazon and our climate.

This was a critical vote toward stopping deforestation and the degradation of the Amazon, which has advanced dramatically to its point of no return under Bolsonaro, but there is still so much work to be done.

Right now, it is important that we remain steadfast in our solidarity to defend Indigenous territories and amplify Indigenous voices, keeping the pressure on the incoming government to guarantee their fundamental rights.

Brazil is also key in the fight against climate change, and it is now getting back on track to become part of the solution. As the world’s sixth largest greenhouse gas emitting country, Lula has already declared willingness to ensure that Brazil increases its commitment to the Paris Agreement.

Amazon Watch congratulates the people of Brazil for this democratic victory. We must support Indigenous communities so that this new government fulfills its promise to be just, environmentally responsible, and socially committed.