Residents of Guiana suffer from mercury poisoning amid consequences of France's colonial policy

The local population in Guiana, suffering from France's decolonization policy, is being poisoned by mercury, Louis Grand Emile, the head of the communication department of the Movement for Social Freedom and Decolonization of French Guiana, said during an international conference titled "Decolonization: Silent Revolution" held at the UN headquarters in New York as part of the IV session of the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent, organized by the Baku Initiative Group, Report informs.

Louis Grand Emile highlighted the deplorable situation in Guiana: "The local population in Guiana faces problems such as mercury poisoning. Mercury used by migrants from Brazil poisons the rivers, causing birth defects and other health problems, especially among the local population that feeds on fish."

Louis Grand Emile emphasized that despite France's adoption of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, it has not ratified Convention No. 169. This has led to the non-recognition of indigenous peoples' rights in Guiana, limiting them to merely "resident" status and causing them to face serious restrictions in land use.

The representative added that the situation is dire not only in terms of health but also in terms of social problems. The increase in suicide cases among young people, drug and alcohol addiction, and the lack of accessible schools and medical services nearby are serious concerns for local communities.

In conclusion, Louis Grand Emile called on France to take a serious approach to its decolonization policy and to respect the rights of indigenous peoples.