I had started research and writing on indigenous rights a few years ago. For several reasons I could not complete it soon enough. I planned to publish the working paper on my blog, and it seems such a pleasant coincidence that today happens to be World Environment Day. It seems very superfluous to discuss protection of a certain sect of people under international law, as we watch the unimaginable horror that Gazans are being subjected to. Witnessing such a global disorder and disruption caused by nations like Russia, Israel, individuals like Trump. The constant threat posed by China to Taiwan and its suppression of Hong Kong’s protesters seeking democracy, its indoctrination and tyranny imposed on Uighurs not just within its borders but also those who have moved out to other nations is a challenge to international community and international institutions.
I remember a journalist in the Guardian posing a question to her readers, if we are becoming powerless societies. I guess we are. It appears we stand a very little chance in rising against growing authoritarianism and despot like Trump who is seen dancing to tunes of foreign leadership. He probably gave us a clue even before he seemingly won the election in 2024, he danced his way into his campaign. By choosing him to be the President that nation has humiliated itself before the world.
Indigenous peoples who practice subsistence form of living have nothing to do with what is happening around the world. They live in self-demarcated territories minding their own business. But when has world left alone those who wish to isolate themselves for the good of global commons and the planet earth. It is indeed a paradox. In its essence, my paper conveys the need to respect these indigenous communities of the globe who manage natural resources for our future generations and give them a place in the international community that they genuinely deserve. Let us not give up hope and our will to resist anarchy and tyranny.
Expanding Business and Human Rights Treaty for Indigenous Rights