The false and dangerous dichotomy of “development vs. Indigenous peoples’ rights” is widespread…based on the flawed argument that extractive or other development projects that serve national interests by increasing national wealth and generating jobs cannot be “obstructed” by Indigenous peoples who are “just” a fraction of society. Thus, when Indigenous communities organize themselves to demand respect for their rights, the state and other actors accuse them of blocking the growth of the entire country. This response has had devastating consequences for the human rights of Indigenous peoples in the region…[when] frequently laws are passed and development projects are carried out without respecting the right of Indigenous peoples to be consulted and to give their free, prior and informed consent…Human rights violations, social conflict and sometimes violent clashes between Indigenous peoples and security forces could have been avoided if states had followed their obligation to hold consultations prior to going ahead with development projects…[refers to Belo Monte (part of Consorcio Norte Energia), La Parota (part of Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE), Chau-75 (part of AES); Marlin mine (part of Goldcorp)].