In memory of Jehry Rivera: One year after his murder, organisations call for an end to impunity and violence in the murders of indigenous defenders in Costa Rica

One year on from the murder of the Brörán indigenous defender Jehry Rivera Rivera, several organisations are calling for compliance with the obligations of the State of Costa Rica regarding the adequate investigation and punishment of the persons responsible, and for security and respect for the territorial rights of indigenous peoples.

On February 24, 2020, more than 150 non-indigenous people formed a violent and armed mob, seeking to injure indigenous people hoping to vindicate their human right to their traditional and legally recognised lands. Jehry was shot five times, including in his back and his head. To date, there has been no trial against the perpetrators of this crime.

There is deep concern about the structural impunity towards defenders of indigenous peoples' rights. 23 months ago, Sergio Rojas Ortiz, a Bribrí indigenous defender from Salitre, was murdered in his home; to date the material or intellectual suspects have not bee identified, let alone sanctioned.

Both Sergio and Jehry had been beneficiaries of the precautionary measures of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights 321/12, since April 30, 2015.