The British newspaper The Guardian reported on Sunday, 27 July about efforts of missionaries to contact the isolated Korubu indigenous group in the border area of Brazil and Peru. The goal of these efforts was reportedly to convert the community to Christianity. The newspaper writes that the missionaries and organisations engaged in illegal activities, since Brazilian law does not permit proselytising in Korubu territory and stipulates that isolated groups must initiate any contact.  

IARF is shocked by the story in the Guardian and maintains that all communities, and especially isolated indigenous groups, must have their beliefs, traditions, and autonomy respected. This principle has been laid down in several treaties and declarations of the UN. Forcing contact with unknown technologies, like described in the article in the Guardian, is both immoral and against the letter and spirit of the UN treaties. It can be considered as a modern form of colonialism which destroys rich local cultures and identities, and can inflict lasting harm. 

IARF urges the organisations involved to cease these activities immediately and insists that individuals and organisations responsible be held accountable.