An article published on 9 September 2026 by L’Osservatore Romano highlights the growing concern within the Latin American Church about the consequences of extractivism. The article focuses in particular on the experience of Brazilian Bishop Vicente De Paula Ferreira, who became deeply involved in integral ecology following the collapse of the Brumadinho dam in 2019, which claimed 272 lives and caused severe environmental contamination. Since then, he has stood alongside affected communities, denouncing an unethical model of extractivism and placing their call for justice and truth at the centre.

Today, Bishop De Paula Ferreira advocates an approach based on equitable dialogue and the direct participation of local communities, as emphasised in the document “Fair and Equitable Dialogue for Conclict Transformation”, co-authored by Pax Christi International.

We continue to stand with Latin American communities and ecclesial networks, affirming that true justice goes beyond financial compensation and requires listening, spirituality, culture and solidarity.

 

 

Photo credits: L’Osservatore Romano