Celebrating International Day of the World’s Indigenous People

Protecting the Isolated: Celebrating Indigenous Peoples' Rights on August 9th

On August 9th, the world celebrates the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples. This date marks the inaugural session of the Working Group on Indigenous Populations in 1982. This year, the theme is "Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact." The Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) will host a virtual event inviting Indigenous Peoples, Member States, UN entities, civil society, and the public to participate.

Safeguarding the Isolated: Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Remote Forests the World

There are around 200 groups of Indigenous Peoples living in voluntary isolation and initial contact, mainly in remote forests across countries like Bolivia, Brazil, and India. These groups choose to live detached from the rest of the world, relying on their natural environment for survival through hunting and gathering. Protecting their rights is vital, as any changes to their habitat can threaten their way of life and even their existence.

The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) supports their right to self-determination and protects them from forced assimilation and destruction of their culture. This year's virtual commemoration will feature a traditional ceremony, statements from Indigenous leaders, and discussions on protecting these unique communities. Interpretation will be available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese to ensure broad participation.