Briefing on Indigenous Youth Issues and Support for a Second Decade on Indigenous Peoples
5/12/2003
The International Indian Treaty Council hosted this event. Ms Elisabeth Garrett addressed the group as the Chairperson of the Indigenous Youth Caucus and spoke about issues of concern to children and youth, noting in particular that the USA and Somalia are yet to ratify the Convention on the Rights of the Child. She also spoke of the contamination of breast milk caused by persistent organic pollutants in the environment.
Mr. Antonio Gonzales spoke about environmental health issues, particularly the impact of mercury contamination on Indigenous Peoples as a result of gold mining. UNEP was called upon to include Indigenous Peoples in its newly-formed working group and to prepare studies to take action on Indigenous health conditions attributed to mercury contamination.
There was broad support among the meeting for the Permanent Forum’s adoption of a recommendation that would extend the existing Decade on Indigenous Peoples for a further ten years to ensure that outstanding work could be completed, and to include the implementation of the Millennium Development Goals in the work plan for the Decade.
OHCHR-UN Voluntary Fund on Indigenous Populations and the UN Voluntary Fund for the International Decade of the World’s Indigenous People
5/12/2003
At this meeting the secretariat of the Funds and Boards of Trustees together with the Chairpersons of both Boards, informed the participants on the mandate of the Funds and their activities. Relevant documents were also distributed, including application forms.
The UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Populations was established by the General Assembly in 1985 to provide financial assistance to representatives of indigenous communities and organizations to participate in the deliberations of the Working Group on Indigenous Populations. The General Assembly later extended this mandate so that the Fund can also assist indigenous representatives to attend sessions of the Working Group of the Commission of Human Rights on the Draft UN Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.
The UN Voluntary Fund for the International Decade of the World’s Indigenous People was established by the General Assembly in 1993 to fund initiatives during the Decade. This Fund provides project grants for indigenous communities and organizations.
The Finnmark Bill
This briefing was provided by members of the Norwegian Saami Parliament and outlined the 23-year process that has given rise to the Finnmark Bill. Finnmark County covers some 47,000 square kilometers in the northernmost part of Norway where Saami constitute a majority of the population in many municipalities.
The speakers pointed out that after 23 years of negotiations with the Saami People, the Norwegian Government announced in April 2003 that it had “chosen to present a totally new model of its own, not based on any of the previous suggestions.” The Norwegian Government was advocating a policy of equal treatment of all citizens in Finnmark County, rather than any special measures for Saami. Based on statements by the Norwegian Government, the Bill was designed to set out a means of sharing the land so that everyone in Finnmark County have access to its natural resources, and a set of rules to resolve conflict with Saami People.
The manner in which the Norwegian Government had handled this matter has caused great concern amongst the members of the Saami Parliament as rather than strengthening their rights and safeguarding their culture, they believed it would further disempower them and expose their territories to greater development pressures. As a result, the Saami Parliamentarians were working to persuade the Norwegian Parliament to redraft the Bill to reflect the spirit and substance of the fruitful negotiations to date.
05/13/2003
Welcoming Reception and Opening of the Art Exhibition of the PFII
This celebratory event drew many of the delegates away from the conference room to enjoy a much-needed break from the hard work of the Forum and a chance to socialize. As one of the speakers commented, the exhibition was proof that the Forum is not just about writing reports and drafting resolutions, rather it is an opportunity to look at other expressions of the rights and issues of concern to Indigenous Peoples. Surrounded by stunning portrait photographs of Indigenous Peoples from around the world, sculpture and wood carvings, examples of traditional dress and a diverse range of both traditional and contemporary Indigenous paintings, to name but a few of the artworks on display, delegates were treated to performances by a range of musicians. The evocative sounds of an Australian Aboriginal didgeridoo player were followed by an Alaskan welcoming song, a Saami song from the Forum Chairman, a blessing from Masai delegates who even inspired some audience participation, and concluded with a lively Ecuadorian band. As the Chairman commented in his speech, it is often through our art that we reveal our innermost feelings and communicate most effectively with the rest of the world. This opening was a time to enjoy, to be inspired by and to celebrate with Indigenous Peoples.
Briefing by Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms of Indigenous Peoples, Mr. Rodolfo Stavenhagen
Mr. Stavenhagen provided an overview of his mandate from the Commission on Human Rights, following his appointment in 2001. He explained that he has sought to focus on a key thematic issue in his annual reports to the CHR, commencing with major development projects that impact on Indigenous rights in his April 2003 report, and following with his next report on the administration of justice and human rights violations within national justice systems. Mr. Stavenhagen took the opportunity to call on Indigenous Peoples to provide him with information on their experiences of their national justice systems, and circulated a brief guide on what type of information is most useful.
Whilst the Special Rapporteur is only able to make formal visits to States that invite him (such as his recent visits to Guatemala and the Philippines), he stressed that informal visits are also possible if Indigenous Peoples invite him. Most recently this type of invitation has allowed him to draw the CHR’s attention to Indigenous human rights concerns in Botswana, Japan and Canada. Both official and unofficial visits are critical to his ability to have a direct dialogue with Indigenous Peoples, and to take up their concerns with the CHR and Governments.
The Leech and the Earthworm: Genetic Technologies and its Relevance to Indigenous Peoples’ Issues – Film
5/13/2003
The Indigenous Peoples Council on Bio-Colonialism screened this film. It provided a forum for Indigenous peoples to voice their views on Western science – its vision of a genetically engineered future and its inter-relationship with corporate profits, globalization and colonization.
Combining passionate critiques of our potential futures and living alternatives to the globalize monoculture with music and visuals from around the world, this film sought to inspire and educate the audience to ask serious questions of ‘the collective illusion we call progress’. For more information visit www.ipcb.org
Future Possibilities for Collaboration Between Indigenous Peoples and the World Bank
This briefing by the World Bank was co-chaired by Mr. Viktor Kaisiepo (an Indigenous Leader from Dewan Adat Papua) and Mr. Ian Johnson (World Bank Vice President for the Environmentally and Socially Sustainable Development).
The session was organized as a follow-up to the October 2002 Roundtable and the February 2003 meeting in which there was agreement that there would be annual discussions between Indigenous Peoples and the World bank around the time of the Permanent Forum. There was also agreement that this discussion would be used as an opportunity to review ongoing and future collaborations.
05/14/2003
Labor Rights of Indigenous and Tribal Peoples
This event was hosted by the International Labor Office to familiarize participants with the ILO’s work on indigenous and tribal peoples, taking into account both ILO standards and technical assistance. John Langmore, Director of the ILO’s New York liaison office, chaired the event. The principal speakers were Mr. Lee Swepston (Chief, Equality and Employment Branch, ILO Geneva) and Marianne Jensen (Chief Technical Adviser, ILO Project to Promote ILO Policy on Indigenous and Tribal Peoples). Mary Simat from the organization MAWEED, Kenya presented a concrete example of an activity, supported by this project. The topics covered concentrated on ILO standards on indigenous and tribal peoples, and technical assistance benefiting them. Convention No. 169 is the only international convention dealing specifically with indigenous peoples. It is still open for ratification, with 17 States having ratified it and others considering doing so. The broad scope of the convention is a result of the participation of other parts of the UN system and indigenous representatives in its development. The major findings from supervising the Convention’s application are lack of real consultation with indigenous and tribal peoples before taking action that affects them, and lack of protection of indigenous land rights – both of which are required by the Convention. Beyond the Convention, the ILO works for indigenous and tribal peoples in other ways through a number of other ILO Conventions that relate to indigenous peoples as workers, or deal with child labor, discrimination, promotion of cooperatives etc.
America’s Last Frontier – Short Film
This screening was hosted by the American Indian Law Alliance and Thunderstorm. Focusing on one of the world’s last wild places, this film told the story of the Indigenous people of the Gwich’in Nation who are working to protect their territories from protracted oil drilling in the Artic National Wildlife Refuge. The film put a personal face on the importance of human rights regarding the use, protection and management of the natural resources of Indigenous Peoples.
Following the film, a panel of Indigenous leaders outlined some examples of best practice natural resource management on Indian territory. Other panelists from UN Agencies such as UNEP and the CSD, as well of members of the Permanent Forum, discussed how partnership arrangements are being developed with Indigenous Peoples to protect their lands and resources for future generations.
Documentary on the First Session of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
This 2.5-hour documentary was filmed and produced by Rebecca Sommer for Threatened Peoples International. It is a visual and oral report from an IPO and an NGO perspective on the First Session of the Permanent Forum. It aims to capture the voices of Indigenous peoples themselves at this historic First Session, and to encourage more indigenous peoples to become involved in the work of the Forum. Inquiries about obtaining a copy of the video can be directed to Rebecca Sommer rebeccasommer@earthlink.net; copies with subtitles in your own language can be made for NGOs and IPOs, provided that requestors supply the translation.
Indigenous Children and Youth Meeting
Anna Pinto (COIH/CORE) and Elisabeth Garrett (Indigenous Youth Caucus) hosted this event. Ms Ida Nicholaison addressed the meeting in her capacity as the focal point on the Permanent Forum for children and youth issues. She outlined some of the challenges facing the Forum and invited participants to suggest appropriate strategies to address them. One suggestion was to organize a meeting for Indigenous youth prior to the next Permanent Forum so their recommendations can be fed into the main meeting. This might also provide an opportunity for Elders and Members of the Forum to brief and mentor Indigenous youth on the methods of work of the Forum.
There was agreement among participants that if the Permanent Forum is committed to giving Indigenous youth a voice and empowering them, that requires a significant presence of youth delegates and the opportunity for meaningful input into the Forum’s work as experts on these issues. Youth participants in the audience were interested in working towards the nomination of a youth representative to the Permanent Forum to more effectively promote and raise Indigenous youth issues within the UN system.
The meeting was informed of the existence of an interactive computer resource that has been developed by the UN for primary and secondary school age children and their teachers, and can be accessed at www.cyberschoolbus.un.org This site provides resources on global issues and can also be used as a direct communication point for Indigenous youth from around the world. Managers of the site are open to suggestions about adaptation of the site to better meet the needs of Indigenous youth.
05/15/2003
American Indian Community House (AICH) – Youth Council and Indigenous Youth Caucus Youth – Debate: Urban Indigenous Youth and Reservation /Rural Youth: Advantages & Disadvantages.
This debate was facilitated by AICH Youth representative Carrese Gullo (East Cherokee) and Elisabeth Garrett (Cherokee) (Youth Representative on the High Level Panel Discussion). Chaired by Elisabeth Garrett, the debate was well attended with many film crews in the room The topic was on the advantages and disadvantages of being either an urban indigenous youth or a reservation/rural Indigenous Youth. Introductions of representatives from Hawaii, Asia, Aboriginal Australia, Peru, Africa, and Cherokee were made.
Apache Heather Lightning gave a well-articulated presentation, focussing on how important it was to remember they were the Indians of this country and that they were fighting for their survival as young Indians. Youth from the AICH delivered statements on work they do with AICH, some of the programmes they have on youth employment, AIDS, education programmes. They said it was not easy but they had the support of their community in New York and that AICH was a positive place to be in with many other indigenous events being organized there.
The Hawaiian youth representative talked of the impact of the tourist industry on native Hawaiians and how it had seriously damaged the identity of Hawaiian youth, further that the positive side of the tourist industry meant that the dance and languages were being revived because the Hawaiian culture was a commodity of some monetary value. She pointed out however that this touristic driven training in Hawaiian dance and their language was not rooted in community development, but rather to build the “tourist dollar”
The Aboriginal youth representative speaking to the topic mentioned how hard it was to go back to his ancestral lands where his people were from because where he was from, was all fenced off by the Government and no one was allowed access to it anymore, further, that it had been like this for 50yrs, well before his birth. His family had moved to the city to look for work and education. He was fortunate in that his uncle still makes and teaches the digeridoo and therefore he was still able to be taught Aboriginal customs and thinking. He noted that most Aboriginal youth want to link back with their roots and that the didgeridoo was an important link for them in the city because it was all they had. He noted that tourist outlets used his people as tourist attractions but did not know how to recognize their right to their lands, resources, and languages. That their youth were in crisis because of racist Australian policies.
The Asian representative spoke of problems in Nepal because of civil war and divisions amongst the indigenous peoples. His language was still being spoken in the mountains and also in the city, but the gap between young and old was widening because it’s essential for people to go to the city for work or to sell their vegetables and craft. Modern cheap versions of what they spend many hours weaving or making by hand were impacted on and took away the livelihood and knowledge of years of practice The Peruvian spokesperson spoke from the floor, congratulating the Side Event for indigenous youth and said that they should network and talk outside of this forum because he did not trust the objectives of governments. The African spokesperson also spoke from the floor, making similar comments as his Peruvian friend. Feedback from the participants was lively and animated. Many of the indigenous organizations congratulated those of the panelists on their initiative to hold such a debate for youth, because they were essential to the future work of indigenous peoples rights in the international community.
Filming of the event was carried out.
Indigenous Peoples and the Information Society
This seminar panel featured Special Ambassador for the World Summit on the Information Society (Mr. Guy-Oliver Segond), UN Permanent Forum members (Mr. Fotunato Turpo and Mr. Marco Matias), the Head of the Canadian Delegation to the Forum (Mr. John Sinclair), the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (Mr. Jay Roberts), the Inuit Tapariit Kanatami (Mr. Craig Clark), and the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs/Aboriginal Canada Portal Working Group (Mr. Ian McArthur).
Much of the discussion with the panel focused on the need to increase Indigenous participation in the December 2003 WSIS Summit. There was considerable support for the proposal to hold a one-day Indigenous Information Summit immediately preceding the main Summit. The Aboriginal Canadian Portal Working Group (a collective of 9 government departments and 6 national Indigenous organizations that manage ICT issues in Canada) volunteered to facilitate and champion such an “Indigenous Peoples and the Information Society” session. The ACP also offered to assist other countries to develop internet portals based on partnerships between government and indigenous peoples. Other issues raised during panel discussions that are affecting Indigenous peoples regardless of their location were the need to:
- extend telecom infrastructure to communities;
- create Indigenous content;
- develop and deploy on-line social services and e-commerce; and
- promote computer literacy and on-line skills.
Remedies: Healing the Earth – Short Film
This event was jointly hosted by UNDP (Mr. Pierre Quiblier, Liaison Officer, NYO) and the Heifer Project International (Dr James De Vries, Vice President for International Programs and Dr Mahendra Lohani, Asia and South Pacific Program Director). It provided Heifer International an opportunity to screen the short film, Remedies: Healing the Earth by award-winning producer, Dick Young. The film showed farmers who have benefited from the work of Heifer in a range of countries. Farmers improved their livelihood, while at the same time improving the environment.
Following this introduction, Heifer International briefed participants on its work over the last 59 years to address hunger, poverty and environmental degradation in grass-roots communities by providing gifts of farm animals and training in their care. Heifer emphasizes care for the earth’s natural resources through training in livestock management, pasture improvement, soil conservation, forestation and water harvesting. The simple requirement that each recipient pass on to others some of the offspring of the farm animals they receive has assisted many communities in over 115 countries to become self-sustaining and to do so with dignity rather than dependence. For more information on Heifer’s work, visit www.heifer.org
Briefing on the UN Housing Rights Programme
This event, jointly hosted by Mr. Sleman Erguden (UN-HABITAT) and Ms Isabell Kempf (OHCHR), provided an overview of this programme, which is a joint initiative of the two agencies. It was launched in 2002 and is designed to assist States with their commitments under international human rights law generally, and the Habitat Agenda in particular, to ensure the full and progressive realization of the right to adequate housing. It operates as a fundamental tool for the Global Campaign to Secure Tenure and is implemented in close cooperation with the Special Rapporteur on Housing and relevant UN treaty bodies.
The programme is currently circulating a questionnaire on Indigenous Peoples’ housing rights amongst over 180 Indigenous Peoples’ organizations in English, Spanish and French. The study will provide a compilation of information, an analysis of the existing situation and a forward looking perspective on actions at various levels which can contribute to improvements in the lives of Indigenous Peoples. Particular attention is being paid to the housing rights of Indigenous women. It is recognized that the right to housing must be delivered in a manner that recognizes and respects the distinct lifestyles and practices of Indigenous Peoples if appropriate legislation and policies are to be developed at the national level. Responses to the questionnaire are sought by 7 July 2003 and more information is available at www.unhabitat.org/programmes/housingrights
05/16/2003
Indigenous Peoples’ Right to Self-Determination as Perceived by Civil Society
This event was hosted by CAPAJ and the Secretariat for the World Civil Society Forum. Participants were briefed on the World Civil Society Forum that took place in Geneva in July 2002. The Forum aimed to promote co-operation across civil society organizations around the world, especially those working in developing countries and with indigenous peoples. The Forum also sought to foster an ongoing dialogue between civil society organizations, international organizations, UN agencies, governments and the private sector. The Forum was attended by over one thousand participants (the majority from developing countries), including NGOs, international organizations and UN agencies. Ms Mililani Trask represented the Permanent Forum at the Geneva meeting. In addition to information and discussion sessions, participants attended training sessions, workshops, thematic working groups (including one on ‘Indigenous Peoples, Gender and Development’), a youth forum and cultural activities. A number of the recommendations from the Forum related to Indigenous Peoples, the Draft Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the right of peoples to self-determination; visit www.worldcivilsociety.org for details.
The Health of Indigenous Children and Youth
This interactive briefing and meeting with Permanent Forum members (Ms Ida Nicolaison and Ms Mililani Trask) was organized by the Committee on Indigenous Health. It provided an opportunity for members of the Forum and the Indigenous Children and Youth Caucus to discuss recent developments in relation to the health of Indigenous children, including new reports from the Committee on Indigenous Health. Some of the topics discussed included reproductive health, HIV/AIDS, traditional healers, the gendered aspect of Indigenous health knowledge, violence against Indigenous children, slavery and trafficking in Indigenous children, mental health, environmental health, as well as the work of WHO and the Pan American Health Organisation in relation to Indigenous children. The discussions that followed assisted participants in formulating their recommendations to the Permanent Forum in relation to the agenda item on health.
Indigenous Peoples’ Follow-Up to the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD)
This briefing session was jointly hosted by Tebtebba Foundation (Ms. Vicky Tauli Corpuz) and the Indigenous Peoples’ Caucus of the Commission on Sustainable Development. Participants were updated on the key outcomes of the WSSD that are directly related to the work of the Permanent Forum including: Johannesburg Declaration from the WSSD, which “reaffirmed the vital role of Indigenous Peoples in sustainable development”;
- Johannesburg Plan of Action (JPOI);
- Kimberley Declaration and the Indigenous Peoples’ Plan of Implementation, prepared by the Indigenous Peoples’ Caucus attending the WSSD; and
- 11th Session of the CSD, which established the future programme, organization and methods of work of the CSD for the next 12 years to implement the JPOI.
Other members of the panel were:
- Ms Lucy Mulenkei (African Women’s Indigenous Organisation), who spoke about the difficulties of involving African Indigenous Peoples in the WSSD and the importance of donor support to ensure broader African participation in future conferences;
- Mr. Marcial Arias (International Alliance of Indigenous/Tribal Peoples of the Tropical Forests) who provided an update on the work of the UN Permanent Forum on Forests (PFF), noting that the focus in 2004 will be on forests and traditional knowledge;
- His Excellency Ambassador Tyge Lehman (Ambassador of Denmark) and Ms Tove Sovndahl Pedersen (Adviser to Greenland Home Rule Government), who outlined the Partnership on Indigenous Peoples Rights and Sustainable Development, Capacity Building for Dialogue.
This partnership was launched in Johannesburg under the leadership of the Government of Denmark and the Home Rule Government of Greenland, together with representatives of Indigenous organizations; like-minded countries, institutions and organizations. It aims to promote Indigenous Peoples’ rights across UN agencies and exchange information on good policies and practices that advance Indigenous rights and contributions to sustainable development. Following its launch, a workshop was held in Copenhagen in March 2003 to identify a range of specific activities and actions to build the partnership relationship. Visit www.um.dk for a report of the workshop and information about becoming involved in the partnership.
Mining the Heart, Lungs and Blood of Our Mother – Short film hosted by the Indigenous Environmental Network and Tebtebba Foundation
Joji Carino (Tebtebba Foundation) presented this short film, which examined the adverse health and environmental impacts of mining on Indigenous communities in West Papua and the Pueblo Indian Communities of New Mexico, USA. It highlighted the fact that extractive mining industries in these countries impact on not only on the Indigenous peoples working in them, but as a result of the environmental degradation they cause, there are a range of serious health impacts, especially for women and children, and a general disruption of the economic viability of entire communities. Following the screening, the audience discussed the need for Indigenous communities who are experiencing similar problems to create networks amongst themselves so there can be a more strategic and concerted response to what is already a global problem.
05/19/2003
New Methods of the Working Group on Indigenous Populations
Mr. Miguel Alfonso Martinez, Chairperson-Rapporteur of the Working Group on Indigenous Populations (WGIP), invited interested representatives of Member States, indigenous peoples and members of the Permanent Forum to participate in a discussion on new working methods for the WGIP. Participants were provided with a copy of the draft document produced by the WGIP Secretariat on new methods of work to stimulate discussion. The aim of the new working methods is to create a more inter-active dialogue between Working Group experts, governments and indigenous peoples, and thereby more effectively protect and promote the rights of indigenous peoples.
During the discussion amongst participants it was suggested that the WGIP should cooperate more closely with the human rights treaty bodies as they have produced important and concrete recommendations regarding indigenous peoples’ rights in their concluding observations. The Secretariat of the WGIP informed participants that the OHCHR website on indigenous issues (www.unhchr.ch/indigenous/main) now has a section including “latest news” which provides up-dated information and advanced copies of most background documents of the WGIP.
UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues – Short Film
Cultural Survival produced this 35-minute documentary film to introduce Indigenous communities to the work of the Permanent Forum and its members. It describes the mandate of the Forum and showed the members in action during the historic first session – enabling people to see the proceedings unfold, and how the Forum is working to address the many issues confronting Indigenous Peoples. For more information about Cultural Survival and how to obtain copies of the video, visit www.cs.org
Briefing on the Copenhagen Meeting on the Draft Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (the DD)
This briefing was chaired by Mr. Hjalmar Dahl (Inuit Circumpolar Conference) and provided an opportunity for delegates to discuss the conclusions and recommendations of the Indigenous Peoples’ meeting on the DD that took place in Copenhagen from 3-5th May, 2003. The Copenhagen Meeting was prompted by the slow progress of the Working Group on the Draft Declaration (WGDD) over the last 8 years, and the concern on the part of those Indigenous organizations and individuals who attended, that unanimous support for the final text may not be achieved.
Among the points of discussion at this briefing was the conclusion at the Copenhagen Meeting that “if the Declaration cannot obtain unanimity in the WGDD, it might prove necessary to adopt it on the basis of substantial support among Indigenous Peoples and participating states in the WGDD.” The Copenhagen Meeting agreed on some principles and criteria to guide future discussions on the DD, which were also discussed and debated at this briefing. There was also a call by some delegates for the OAS Declaration to be brought before the Permanent Forum for review before it is finalized. The Copenhagen Meeting document will also be presented on approval at the 9th Session of the WGDD in Geneva in September 2003, and other relevant meetings and fora.
Human Rights as a Cross-Cutting Theme for the Promotion of Indigenous Issues
5/19/2003
This event examined how Indigenous Peoples can develop strategies for social and economic transformation through human rights based approaches and human rights education. The panel of experts consisted of Shulamith Koenig (People’s Movement for Human Rights Education); Kathleen Modrowski (Anthropologist, Long Island University); Craig Mokhiber (Acting Deputy Director, OHCHR New York Office); and Clarence Dias (Institute of Law in Development).
It was noted there are development ‘predators’ and ‘victims’, with Indigenous Peoples tending to fall into the latter category. This disparity has been heightened by the process of globalization and the associated commercialization of the natural environment and traditional knowledge. However, existing human rights instruments can act as a shield against the further victimization of Indigenous Peoples. Rights based approaches that emphasis meaningful participation, accountability, non-discrimination, attention to vulnerability, empowerment and explicit linkage to international human rights instruments and standards offer the best hope of avoiding unintentional harm to Indigenous communities and fostering their true development.
Panelists stressed the importance of existing human rights legal instruments (such as the International Bill of Rights) as legally binding standards that Indigenous Peoples can use to bring governments to account. These instruments and standards can be incorporated into development plans and used as a vehicle for social transformation and empowerment, providing Indigenous Peoples are joint partners with governments and agencies in the development, implementation and monitoring of these plans. It was also noted that any education or development program will only be effective if it is inclusive of the rights, needs and aspirations of Indigenous Peoples and expressed in a language and terminology that they understand and relate to.
Indian Country Today Side Event
5/19/2003
Studio 4 was packed with indigenous journalists from the globe. Jose Borrero chaired the side event and presented the newspaper Indian Country Today, with an explanation of what the paper tried to achieve for native Indians generally. He described the content and the nature of the paper, stating that the paper tried to capture all issues important to indigenous peoples, employment, achievements, notices, announcements, and advertisements. The paper he said was not different to most papers, but focussed on indigenous peoples issues. He spoke also of the magazine Akwesasne, which is a publication from the American House in Cornell. He noted that this journal was devoted to serious articles on indigenous politics, issues, legalities in terms of the US context. He then asked the participants who were mainly indigenous journalists from print, radio, television or internet publications, to introduce themselves and to give a background of their respective journalism.
Many of the journalists talked of the need to have a strong indigenous network, which could link to mainstream media and that although there were many websites they are not really linked with the UN. A journalist noted that they wanted to be linked to the website that Moana Sinclair had coordinated in the first session of the Permanent Forum, 2002 www.indigenousmedia.org That the project of coordinating 4 indigenous journalists in the First Session of the Permanent Forum was an important achievement and that it should be strengthened and developed.
05/22/2003
This event was hosted by the NGO Committee on the Decade of the World’s Indigenous Peoples (Mr. Roberto Mulato Borrero – Taino) and sponsored by this Committee, the Secretariat of the Permanent Forum, DPI and the American Museum of Natural History. It was opened by the Kahurangi Maori Dance Theatre from New Zealand, who performed a number of Maori dances and songs that conveyed traditional stories and beliefs, as well as the proud, warrior tradition of the Maori People. Their performance also highlighted the central place of Maori women in cultural expression, who performed their own elaborate dances and songs alongside the men.
El Grupo Cultural Nunkui from the Amazon region of Ecuador followed with a performance of their traditional dance to welcome visitors and greet strangers to their community. Ms Allison Warden from Alaska then performed a traditional Inuit dance, followed by some of her own contemporary songs about the struggle that many Indigenous Peoples experience when they try to establish their own identity and place in a multi-cultural society. Mr Roberto Borrero was inspired by the celebratory mood that prevailed, and gave an impromptu performance of a traditional Puerto Rican song of greeting to close the event.
Book Presentation: Indigenous Childhood in Mexico
5/22/2003
This book presentation was undertaken as part of a panel discussion on the situation confronting Indigenous children in Mexico. The panel was co-hosted by the Mexican Mission (Ambassador Adolfo Aguilar Zinser) and the Rigoberta Menchu Tum Foundation (RMTF). It was moderated by Mr. Raul Molina (Director, RMTF New York), who introduced the other members: UNICEF (Ms Elizabeth Gibbons); Mr. Marcus Matias (member of the Permanent Forum); Mr. Alfonso Alem Rojo (author of Indigenous Childhood in Mexico and Director, RMTF Mexico); and a young Mexican student. The panel opened discussions by referring to some of the main observations and conclusions contained in Indigenous Childhood in Mexico, noting that it is a significant contribution to the national debate about Mexico’s acceptance of its Indigenous Peoples. As in many developing countries, Indigenous children in Mexico are on perhaps the lowest scale of the social structure, with girls facing even greater marginalisation and discrimination than boys. The panel discussed some of the root causes behind this situation, including the migration of parents in search of work and the forced displacement of entire families as a result of economic development or political unrest. The panel credited Mr. Rojo’s book with providing some constructive recommendations regarding appropriate legal measures that could improve the situation of Indigenous children in Mexico.
UNDP and Indigenous Peoples: MDGs, Data Disaggregation and Human Rights
5/22/2003
This interactive panel discussion was chaired by Ms Alejandra Pero (UNDP CSO Chair) and hosted by UNDP (Mr. Eduardo Zepeda and Ms Tanni Mukhopadhyay). Other members of the panel were Mililani Trask (representing the Permanent Forum) and Anna Pinto (CORE). The event provided an opportunity to explore the opportunities by which UNDP can deepen its partnership with Indigenous Peoples, and how the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) can be a vehicle to address Indigenous Peoples’ concerns.
Recommendations:
5/22/2003
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- Formation of an Independent International Commission of Indigenous Peoples for the Mediation and Resolution of Conflicts based on traditional resources and methods for the handling and resolution of conflicts and provide assistance whenever requested by indigenous peoples.
- Condemn the inhumane act in Democratic Republic of Congo because of which our indigenous sisters are suffering and dying and call for the immediate halt.
- Condemn violence against indigenous women and girls and exercise due diligence to prevent, investigate and punish acts of violence against women, whether those acts are perpetrated by the State or by private persons.
- Strengthen the role of indigenous women and ensure equal representation of indigenous women at all decision-making levels in national and international institutions which may make or influence policy with regard to matters related to peace-keeping, preventive diplomacy and related activities and in all stages of peace mediation and negotiations.
- Take measure to reduce the excessive military expenditures including trade in arms, investment for arms productions and acquisition so as to permit the possible allocation of additional funds for social and economic development, in particular for the advancement of indigenous women.
- Support, strengthen and promote the indigenous knowledge, tradition, customs and practices that contribute to conflict resolution.
- Support and promote the implementation of the rights of self-determination of all peoples as enunciated, inter alia, in the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action by providing special programmes in leadership and in training for decision-making.
Offer adequate protection and assistance to indigenous women and children displaced and find solutions to the root causes of their displacement with a view to preventing it and, when appropriate, facilitate their return or resettlement.
- Request Permanent Forum to consider Indigenous Women as the theme for its 3rd Session, 2004.
Indigenous Women and Peace Building
5/22/2003
This event was organized by the South Asia Indigenous Women’s Forum and Nepal Tamang Women Ghedung, with support from IWGIA. It was facilitated by Ms Stella Tamang, and the panelists were Vicky Tauli Corpuz (Philippines), Leonor Zalabata (Columbia); and Lucy Mulenkei (Kenya). ps@tamang.wlink.com.np All too often indigenous women are the victims of many conflicts. Aggression, foreign occupation, ethnic and various forms of conflicts are an ongoing reality affecting indigenous women in all regions. Armed conflicts continue to occur in many parts of the world and have escalated over the last decade. Indigenous peoples have had their land snatched away, their resources robbed, their languages banned, their culture destroyed, their existence rejected and their fundamental rights denied.
All manner of conflicts gender conflicts, conflicts for civil and political rights, conflicts against colonization, globalization, national security, terrorism, armed conflicts subjugate indigenous women and girls. Exclusion, suppression, exploitation and a dearth of power are the harsh realities of indigenous women and girls. Rape of women and girls by parties to conflict which occur with impunity.
Prompted to take some action on the above concerns the South Asia Indigenous Women Forum SAIWF and Nepal Tamang Women Ghedung jointly organized the panel discussion on “IndigenousWomen and Peace Building”, on May 22nd, 2003 at 13.00 hrs at United Nation as side event during the 2nd Session of UN Permanent forum On Indigenous Issues. The cost for the hall and the interpreters was supported by IWGIA. Indigenous women because of their practices, tradition and culture in resolving conflicts, were invited to discuss issues of peace building.
Stella Tamang of Nepal was the facilitator and the panelists were:
- Victoria Tauli Corpuz
- Lucy Mulenkei
- Leonor Zalabata/Maria Eugenia Choque
- Ms. Njuma Ekundanayo, Member, Permanent Forum
- Mililani Trask, Vice President, Permanent forum Member
This side event was very successful and was attended by many indigenous women and men, state representatives and representatives of the UN Agencies. The panel discussion was very interactive and lively. It is regretted that Leonor Zalabata could not attend and Maria Eugenia presented on her behalf.
Traditional Knowledge and Intellectual Property Regime
5/22/2003
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) hosted a lunchtime briefing to the Forum participants at its Coordination Office premises, which was chaired by Mr. O. Fasehun, Director. Mr. S. Rama Rao, Senior Counsellor, in his briefing addressed the topic “WIPO Process and Intellectual Property Rights”, and focused on the areas of traditional knowledge, genetic resources and expressions of folklore from the perspective of intellectual property protection, and explained the work undertaken by WIPO starting from fact-finding in different countries and regions to the establishment of an Inter-Governmental Committee (IGC) and its ongoing work. He emphasized the inclusive nature of the process of WIPO’s work and commitment to involve all stakeholders, explained the issue of participation of representatives of indigenous and local communities. The Coordination Office made available relevant documents to the participants. The participants included a number of indigenous and civil society representatives and other stakeholders. The presentation attracted substantive discussion on intellectual property issues of direct concern to the indigenous peoples. The participants raised issues relating to sovereignty of indigenous people on their territories and assets, suitability of existing IP system to indigenous issues, need for sui generis system of TK management, prior informed consent and funding of indigenous representatives in WIPO meetings, and protection of copyrights on indigenous music. The questions were answered by Mr. Rao who assured the representatives that the views expressed fairly reflected the stakeholders’ position and due involvement in WIPO’s work. Finally, Mr. Rao highlighted the vision and commitment of WIPO’s Director General, Dr. Kamil Idris, to find practical solutions to intellectual property issues in the realm of traditional knowledge, genetic resources and folklore. For further information, please visit ” www.wipo.int/globalissues/igc”.
05/23/2003
Closing Cultural Event
This event was hosted by the NGO Committee on the Decade of the World’s Indigenous Peoples (Mr. Roberto Mulato Borrero – Taino) and sponsored by this Committee, the Secretariat of the Permanent Forum, DPI and the American Museum of Natural History. It was opened by the Kahurangi Maori Dance Theatre from New Zealand, who performed a number of Maori dances and songs that conveyed traditional stories and beliefs, as well as the proud, warrior tradition of the Maori People. Their performance also highlighted the central place of Maori women in cultural expression, who performed their own elaborate dances and songs alongside the men.
El Grupo Cultural Nunkui from the Amazon region of Ecuador followed with a performance of their traditional dance to welcome visitors and greet strangers to their community. Ms Allison Warden from Alaska then performed a traditional Inuit dance, followed by some of her own contemporary songs about the struggle that many Indigenous Peoples experience when they try to establish their own identity and place in a multi-cultural society. Mr Roberto Borrero was inspired by the celebratory mood that prevailed, and gave an impromptu performance of a traditional Puerto Rican song of greeting to close the event.
Welcome to the United Nations
Theme “Indigenous Children and Youth”