For indigenous and local communities along Brazil's Xingu River, life is changing forever. Construction of the Belo Monte Dam - the third-largest in the world - has displaced them from their homes and ruined their traditional fishing grounds on this major tributary of the Amazon. AIDA is helping by providing free legal support and representation before international authorities. We're defending their rights to adequate housing, water, sanitation, livelihood, culture, and a healthy environment.

Nearly all the children in La Oroya, Peru have high concentrations of heavy metals in their blood. Many residents suffer from chronic lung illnesses. A metal smelter has contaminated the air, soil, and water of this Andean city since 1922. AIDA is providing free legal advocacy to help the community hold the government accountable for the health impacts and environmental damage. After nearly two decades, the case is headed to an international court.

Ocean enthusiasts prize Mexico's pristine, multi-hued coral reefs. Hundreds of colorful fish species, sea urchins, starfish, and sea grasses share the reefs with an abundance of other magnificent sea creatures. But coastal development threatens reef destruction. AIDA is advocating for national and international authorities to remediate damage already caused at Veracruz Reef in the Gulf of Mexico, and to preserve the pristine Cabo Pulmo Reef in Baja California Sur.