IWGIA Newsletter - 4/2007
This edition of IWGIA's Newsletter covers news and updates from the indigenous world and IWGIA during July to September 2007.
If your browser cannot open this newsletter, you can read it at www.iwgia.org's Noticeboard
UN takes historic step towards promotion and protection of indigenous peoples' rights
With an overwhelming majority of 143 votes in favour, only 4 negative votes cast (Canada, Australia, New Zealand, United States) and 11 abstentions, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples on September 13, 2007.
IWGIA welcomes the adoption of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Every year we witness innumerable accounts of violations of indigenous peoples' basic human rights. Their survival and dignity are threatened by States' irresponsible management of the natural resources available in their traditional territories. They have very limited access to political influence, and in general they are poorer, their health situation is worse, and their life expectancy is shorter, than that of the average population in the countries they live in. It is therefore our hope, that de principles expressed in the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples will be implemented in national legislation and administration across the world in the years to come. Within the framework of the Declaration, States now have a historic opportinity to counterbalance centuries of oppression and discrimination of indigenous peoples, and start new partnerships that build on respect for their fundamental human rights.
 Read the draft resolution on the adoption, including the full text of the Declaration (pdf)
Read the International Indigenous Caucus' statement (pdf)
Read the statement of the Chair of the UN Permanent Forum (pdf)
Background
The Declaration has been negotiated through more than 20 years between nation-states and Indigenous Peoples. It sets a framework for a new partnership between indigenous peoples and states, based on respect and mutual recognition. With paragraphs on indigenous peoples' right to self-determination, to own, devlop and control their traditional lands and territories, to maintain and develop their traditional institutions and cultural practices, to culturally appropriate education, spiritual integrity, etc., the Declaration is a strong instrument for the defense and promotion of indigenous peoples' individual and collective rights.
Read more about the Declaration on IWGIA's website
News from the indigenous world
Bolivia: Class war threatens constitutional reforms
Philippines: Subanon tribe calls on the UN CERD Committee to put pressure on Philippine government to stop mining activities on their land
Nepal ratifies ILO Convention 169
Congo Brazzaville: Pygmy voters exploited in recent elections
See more news articles on IWGIA's Noticeboard
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IWGIA's Annual Report 2006
New French edition of the report The Special Rapporteur - Experiences and Challenges
The Indigenous World 2007
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