Honduran lawmakers demand consultation before La Moskitia oil exploration

Honduran deputies Erika Urtecho and Mardel Wood Madsin are demanding that the government conduct a free, prior, and informed consultation with indigenous and Afro-descendant communities in La Moskitia before proceeding with any technical oil exploration activities.

The request follows reports of potential reactivation of hydrocarbon research and prospecting in the Gracias a Dios department. Legislators noted they have received numerous concerns from local fishermen and divers regarding these activities.

The deputies emphasized that under ILO Convention 169, the state is obligated to ensure these communities are consulted without pressure or threats. They also clarified that the National Congress has not approved any projects, contracts, or proposals related to oil exploration in the region during the current or previous legislative periods, and they are calling for official transparency regarding the status of these projects.