Indigenous leaders in Nicaragua, especially those on the country’s remote east coast, say their people are being ignored as plans for a inter-oceanic canal move forward. The indigenous groups say the canal project could affect their land, livelihoods and way of life. Some hope the canal could have a positive economic impact but want more consultation with government officials.

Bluefields is the largest population center on Nicaragua’s east coast and home to the majority of the nation’s indigenous people. Life in Bluefields revolves around the community’s central market, docks and the Moravian Church. Community leaders here are concerned about how plans for an inter-oceanic canal will affect their community, its economy and way of life.

By law the Rama-Kriol people of Nicaragua have autonomous authority in the island community of Rama Cay and a vast area on the mainland. As Rama Cay has become crowded, the Rama people have built homes on the mainland. Community leaders are concerned that the Nicaraguan government’s plans for a canal will violate sovereignty and erode control over their lands.