Porteirinha (Brazil) Municipal Law: rights of the Mosquito River

Summary

On April 15, 2024, the Mosquito River in Minas Gerais, Brazil, was recognized as a subject with rights, marking a significant step in the Rights of Nature movement in the region. It can now be defended in court and its well-being is legally protected. This recognition aligns with the broader “Rights of Nature” movement, which aims to grant legal standing to natural entities like rivers and ecosystems, allowing them to be defended against environmental damage.

The state of Minas Gerais has been actively involved in the Rights of Nature movement, with proposals and actions being taken to recognize the rights of nature in the region. Besides the Mosquito River, other municipalities in Brazil, such as Bonito-PE, have also recognized the rights of nature in their organic laws. The movement has led to legal actions, such as the case seeking recognition of the Rio Doce River Basin as a subject of rights, though this case was dismissed for lack of legal personality. The recognition of the Mosquito River as a subject with rights aims to protect the river from pollution, deforestation, and other environmental threats, ensuring its healthy existence. The Rights of Nature movement in Brazil is gaining traction, with civil society organizations like MAPAS playing a key role in promoting the movement and advocating for the protection of nature.

Involved Organizations