Today in Focus Missing in the Amazon: the frontline – episode six
Aug 30, 2025
Tom Phillips, The Guardian’s Latin America correspondent, dives into the heart of the Amazon, revisiting the Javari Valley and those risking their lives to combat organized crime. He discusses the legacy of environmental activism, highlighting the courageous efforts of indigenous defenders. The podcast explores the formation of Indigenous Defense Teams to protect local populations, and the urgent need for advocacy against poaching and illegal mining. It also touches on establishing educational foundations to empower the community and preserve the Amazon's future.
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Airport Conversation That Sparked A Book
- Dom told Beto he wanted to write a manual on how to save the Amazon and needed local help to tell the story.
- Beto agreed and later helped complete Dom's unfinished book after Dom's murder.
Unfinished Book Became A Collective Project
- Dom's book, How to Save the Amazon, was left unfinished after his killing and then completed by dozens of journalists.
- The book's publication in London was framed as Dom's legacy continuing despite his murder.
ERVO's Growth And Frontline Training
- Tom shadowed ERVO as it trained new indigenous recruits and expanded after Bruno's death.
- The group grew from 14 members to 116 and aimed to cover six regional river teams across the Javari Valley.
