International pressure grows in support of Brazil’s civil society’s call
Lula, the World Is Watching:
Veto Brazil’s Amazon Devastation Bill Now!
Daleth Oliveira | Amazon Watch
(July 31, 2025) — Across Brazil, civil society is rising up against Bill 2.159/21, known as the Devastation Bill, a dangerous piece of legislation that would dismantle environmental licensing, open the door to unchecked industrial destruction, and put Indigenous and traditional communities at grave risk.
On Tuesday, July 29, social movements held a powerful vigil in front of the presidential palace in Brasília, urging President Lula to fully veto the bill recently passed by the Chamber of Deputies.
“This vigil is one of many actions across the country. We want the president to hear the people’s demand,” said Raissa Felippe, socio-environmental campaigner at Instituto Arayara.
Mobilization is growing fast. On Wednesday, July 30, Amazon Watch released a powerful video message from Chief Juma Xipaia, a globally respected Indigenous leader and protagonist of the award-winning film Yasuní.
“Our future will be condemned if President Lula doesn’t veto the Devastation Bill,” she warned.
With COP30 approaching and Brazil under the global spotlight, the stakes could not be higher. The Coordinating Body of Indigenous Organizations of the Brazilian Amazon (COIAB) issued a powerful statement calling the bill “an unacceptable step backward” and a threat not only to Indigenous rights and the environment, but to Brazil’s credibility on the international stage.
“We must remain focused on protecting territories, peoples, rights, and our future,” said COIAB. “This veto is not only necessary for us, Indigenous peoples – it is necessary for all of humanity.”
Brazilian president Lula da Silva
President Lula has until August 8 to issue a full veto. The pressure will only build. Thousands around the world have already joined the call by sending emails directly to Lula. If you haven’t yet, now is the time.
ACTION: Send your message to President Lula today!
This is a defining moment for Brazil – and for the planet. Civil society is demanding real climate leadership and consistency between Brazil’s environmental promises and its political decisions.
The message is clear: Lula, veto the entire bill. The world is watching.
