Abstract:
Based on historical institutionalism, this article assesses the interactions between the Brazilian state, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and pro-indigenous organizations during the proceedings of the Yanomami case between 1980 and 1985. Methodologically, we analyzed primary sources from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to map the interests, strategies and impacts of these actors´ actions. Despite Brazilian pressure against the case, the Commission’s discretion and cleavages among its members coalesced with the external political context, allowing for the strengthening of the Commission and of a transnational indigenist network. These factors resulted in a decision by the Commission that urged the state to guarantee the demarcation of the Yanomami lands.
Keywords:
indigenous peoples; human rights; inter-American system; military dictatorship