Garifuna community in Cayos Cochinos resists eviction attempt

The Organización Fraternal Negra Hondureña (OFRANEH) has denounced an attempted eviction of the Garifuna community in Cayos Cochinos, Honduras. The organization claims the move violates a ruling by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, which recognizes the collective and territorial rights of the Garifuna people and mandates prior, free, and informed consultation.

OFRANEH leaders, including Míriam Miranda, have linked the pressure to economic interests represented by Sociedad de Inversiones Ecológicas S.A. (SIEC) and the Cayos Cochinos Foundation. The organization specifically identified Ricardo Salinas Pliego as a major shareholder in the entities managing the archipelago. They allege that since these groups assumed control, community members have faced aggression, criminalization, and the disappearance of 13 fishermen.

Reports indicate that over 200 police officers arrived at a camp established by land defenders. The community is currently mobilizing to defend their territory against what they describe as development projects, including reality shows, that prioritize profit over human rights and environmental protections, such as turtle spawning seasons.