IPEN’s Lee Bell shares, “National and international measures (such as the Minamata Convention on Mercury) to control mercury contamination from gold mining in Nicaragua are not effective in their current form and need to be strengthened"

These toxic "forever chemicals" were detected in nearly all samples, often exceeding regulatory limits. The study links the textile industry, a major global supplier for fashion brands, to significant PFAS water pollution.

Communities in the Amazon, Africa, and Asia are being poisoned as mercury contaminates rivers and food sources. Indigenous leaders at COP-6 demanded action, but governments delayed once again.

“Eight years after entering into force, the convention should signal a stronger commitment to prioritizing health over gold,” said Yuyun Ismawati.

With a focus on the human rights of groups in vulnerable situations, especially women, children, and Indigenous Peoples, this event will highlight urgent health impacts of mercury, explore strategies for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, and share guidance to strengthen health systems.