Tensions between ranchers and landowners of the Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve after breaking off dialogue with the Government

The government has pledged to suspend evictions from these core areas of the Río Plátano Biosphere while negotiations are underway.

The breakdown of dialogue between the Government and residents of the Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve and other areas surrounding the reserve is causing concern , according to analysts.

The withdrawal from the negotiating table by ranchers and landowners who have invaded lands that are part of national heritage is a step backwards in the struggle and conservation of the forests and rivers in the area, they consider.

According to the National Defense and Security Council, the occupants of the Biosphere organized to boycott the “Zero Deforestation 2030” Environmental Plan with their refusal to stop the advance of migratory agriculture and extensive livestock farming.

“The government issued a statement that is completely contrary to what we have discussed. Now we are trying to refine a counterproposal, removing the points that are harmful to the community,” said a representative of the ranchers and landowners in the area.

Intervention in core areas of the Río Plátano

This week, the  Honduran Armed Forces  began to  intervene  in these forests to prevent further destruction by humans.

At least 100 military personnel from the Ecosystem and Environment Management Support Command -C9- will arrive in the core areas of Río Plátano to protect this territory.

The protests of some residents of Olancho began with evictions in the aforementioned areas. Experts called on the parties in conflict to resume dialogue.