This document discusses the status of minorities in Southeast Asia and ASEAN's approach to minority rights. It notes that Southeast Asia has great ethnic, cultural, and religious diversity but that many ASEAN countries aim to minimize diversity and assimilate minorities. While ASEAN emphasizes cultural diversity, it has been silent on recognizing minorities and their rights. The document analyzes how ASEAN frames culture and rights in its documents and argues that ASEAN's emphasis on unity over diversity and lack of recognition of minority rights and identities can undermine minority groups.
Power Point presentation on "The Indigenous People around the World" as part of International Day of the World's Indigenous People observed in College which bagged 1st Prize
The document discusses the rights of indigenous people in India according to the Indian constitution and international law. It notes that the Indian constitution provides certain protective rights to tribal communities, known as Scheduled Tribes, including educational, cultural, social, economic, political, and employment rights. However, laws aimed at protecting indigenous land rights and self-governance have many shortcomings and failures in implementation. While India voted for the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, it does not consider the concept of indigenous peoples or the declaration applicable within India.
Discussions on the forests and forest resources in the archipelago (Nusantara) cannot be separated from the existence of diverse communities that have social cohesion, cultural, spiritual, ecological, economic, and political attachment with the lands, territories, and forest ecosystems.
Although the state of the world's indigenous peoples is alarming, there is some cause for optimism. The international community increasingly recognizes indigenous peoples' human rights, most prominently evidenced by the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Indigenous peoples themselves continue to organize for the promotion of their rights. They are the stewards of some of the world's most biologically diverse areas and their traditional knowledge about the biodibversity of these areas is invaluable. As the effects of climate change are becoming clearer, it is increaslingly evident that indigenous peoples must play a central role in developing adaptation and mitigation efforts to this global challenge.
The State of the World's Indigenous Peoples is the result of a collaborative effort, organized by the Secretariat of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues. The Chapters were written by independent experts.
UN Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous PeoplesGeoff Campbell
This document provides an outline and background information on the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. It discusses the history of the declaration, Canada's initial objection to it, why Canada later changed its position, and the declaration's authority and effectiveness. Key points include that the declaration sets out individual and collective rights for indigenous peoples, was adopted by the UN in 2007 over initial objections from Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the US, and that while non-binding, it establishes standards and legal precedent for the rights of indigenous peoples.
This document is the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. It was adopted by the UN General Assembly on September 13, 2007. The declaration affirms that indigenous peoples have collective and individual rights, including the right to self-determination and control over their lands and resources. It also recognizes the rights of indigenous peoples to maintain and strengthen their cultures and identities. The declaration contains 46 articles that outline the specific economic, social, cultural, spiritual and political rights of indigenous peoples.
Climate change and land rights of Indigenous peoples CIFOR-ICRAF
Presentation by Andrea Carmen at "Indigenous Peoples’ rights and land tenure" Discussion Forum on the first day of the Global Landscapes Forum 2015, in Paris, France alongside COP21. For more information go to: www.landscapes.org.
Towards national integration in nigeria jumping the hurdlesAlexander Decker
This document discusses national integration in Nigeria. It outlines several policies and programs that Nigerian governments have implemented to promote national integration since independence, such as adopting federalism, creating new states, and establishing the Land Use Decree. However, Nigeria's unity remains threatened by socio-cultural, religious, and political divisions between its many ethnic groups. The document argues that achieving true national integration requires overcoming challenges like ethnicity, corruption, weak institutions, and an ineffective political leadership. It concludes that national integration will only be realized through open dialogue and consensus between Nigeria's diverse ethnicities on the future of their country.
Power Point presentation on "The Indigenous People around the World" as part of International Day of the World's Indigenous People observed in College which bagged 1st Prize
The document discusses the rights of indigenous people in India according to the Indian constitution and international law. It notes that the Indian constitution provides certain protective rights to tribal communities, known as Scheduled Tribes, including educational, cultural, social, economic, political, and employment rights. However, laws aimed at protecting indigenous land rights and self-governance have many shortcomings and failures in implementation. While India voted for the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, it does not consider the concept of indigenous peoples or the declaration applicable within India.
Discussions on the forests and forest resources in the archipelago (Nusantara) cannot be separated from the existence of diverse communities that have social cohesion, cultural, spiritual, ecological, economic, and political attachment with the lands, territories, and forest ecosystems.
Although the state of the world's indigenous peoples is alarming, there is some cause for optimism. The international community increasingly recognizes indigenous peoples' human rights, most prominently evidenced by the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Indigenous peoples themselves continue to organize for the promotion of their rights. They are the stewards of some of the world's most biologically diverse areas and their traditional knowledge about the biodibversity of these areas is invaluable. As the effects of climate change are becoming clearer, it is increaslingly evident that indigenous peoples must play a central role in developing adaptation and mitigation efforts to this global challenge.
The State of the World's Indigenous Peoples is the result of a collaborative effort, organized by the Secretariat of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues. The Chapters were written by independent experts.
UN Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous PeoplesGeoff Campbell
This document provides an outline and background information on the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. It discusses the history of the declaration, Canada's initial objection to it, why Canada later changed its position, and the declaration's authority and effectiveness. Key points include that the declaration sets out individual and collective rights for indigenous peoples, was adopted by the UN in 2007 over initial objections from Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the US, and that while non-binding, it establishes standards and legal precedent for the rights of indigenous peoples.
This document is the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. It was adopted by the UN General Assembly on September 13, 2007. The declaration affirms that indigenous peoples have collective and individual rights, including the right to self-determination and control over their lands and resources. It also recognizes the rights of indigenous peoples to maintain and strengthen their cultures and identities. The declaration contains 46 articles that outline the specific economic, social, cultural, spiritual and political rights of indigenous peoples.
Climate change and land rights of Indigenous peoples CIFOR-ICRAF
Presentation by Andrea Carmen at "Indigenous Peoples’ rights and land tenure" Discussion Forum on the first day of the Global Landscapes Forum 2015, in Paris, France alongside COP21. For more information go to: www.landscapes.org.
Towards national integration in nigeria jumping the hurdlesAlexander Decker
This document discusses national integration in Nigeria. It outlines several policies and programs that Nigerian governments have implemented to promote national integration since independence, such as adopting federalism, creating new states, and establishing the Land Use Decree. However, Nigeria's unity remains threatened by socio-cultural, religious, and political divisions between its many ethnic groups. The document argues that achieving true national integration requires overcoming challenges like ethnicity, corruption, weak institutions, and an ineffective political leadership. It concludes that national integration will only be realized through open dialogue and consensus between Nigeria's diverse ethnicities on the future of their country.
The analysis driven from the above research is that there are no profound laws made by any countries regarding the protection of their heritage culture.
Please like the slide and share your comments.
This document discusses tribal development administration and management in India. It provides an overview of the major objectives of tribal development which include understanding tribal society and culture, assessing tribal development approaches and strategies, ensuring stakeholder mobilization and capacity building, and developing skills in project management and implementation. It also discusses understanding tribal development administration with a focus on ethics and values. The document outlines some key commissions and committees related to tribal development in India and sources of funding for tribal development programs. It discusses concepts like participatory development, the role of community based organizations and non-governmental organizations in tribal development.
Synthesis Paper Indigenous peoples’ rights to lands, territories and resources Dr Lendy Spires
This document summarizes indigenous peoples' rights to lands, territories, and resources under international law. It discusses key elements of these rights as defined in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and ILO Convention No. 169. These include rights to territories and natural resources, as well as collective land rights based on traditional occupation. The document also examines challenges faced by indigenous peoples in different regions and recommends that the International Land Coalition adopt a specific policy and targeted initiatives to support indigenous land rights.
The document discusses the need to preserve tribal and indigenous cultures in India. It outlines several ways to achieve this, including through documentation of material and non-material art forms, institutionalization of cultural learning, recognition of artists, and awareness programs. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs leads various government bodies that work to scientifically preserve exotic tribal heritage through techniques like documentation, establishing research institutions, and empowering local communities and organizations.
The document discusses the history and current status of tribal communities in India. It describes how tribals were better off during Mughal rule, facing exploitation during British colonial rule through systems like jagirdari and zamindari. Currently, tribals face many problems including poverty, health issues, lack of education, cultural isolation, economic marginalization, and displacement. Insurgency groups like Naxalites have found support among some tribals due to government failures and linguistic barriers. The document argues that media could help tribal development by increasing awareness of tribal rights, interviewing tribals to raise their issues, and sensitizing students to tribal concerns through workshops. However, some note that commercialization and lack of development journalism limit media
Indonesian Multiculturalism: Risks and ChallengesIJRESJOURNAL
ABSTRACT. Indonesia is a multicultural country with full diversity. Indonesia consists of diverse culture, local language, race, ethnicity, religion and beliefs, etc. There are risks and challenges of diversity in Indonesia. Therefore, such diversity must be managed properly to avoid problems and conflicts. Lately, it appears many of the problems of diversity in Indonesia. Conflicts among tribes, religions, beliefs and groups are frequent. Conflict occurs in the form of thought and physical. Although the conflict is normal in a multicultural society, the conflict will be a major issue if not managed properly. This article discusses the risks and challenges faced by Indonesia in managing cultural diversity.
Tribal development in India has been a focus of the national development plans since independence. The constitution provides protections for scheduled tribes and establishes advisory councils and welfare departments to protect tribal rights and promote development. There are over 500 tribal communities notified as scheduled tribes, concentrated in central and northeast India. The five year plans aim to raise productivity, rehabilitate bonded labourers, and provide education and training programs with a special focus on women and children.
Policy Debates and Indigenous Education: The Trialectic of Language, Culture,...Che-Wei Lee
As one of co-authors, I presented several policy debate topics and the increasingly important role education institutions play in preserving indigenous languages, culture, and identity. Five country case examples include China, Mexico, Taiwan, Uganda, and the United States. The historical-narrative methodology, including document, policy, and discourse analyses, is used to examine the indigenous policies followed by the debates. The findings show that most indigenous people suffer, in one degree or another, from poverty, discrimination, and marginalization issues. Most indigenous peoples make up about one third of the 900 million extremely poor rural people living on the earth. Indigenous languages, cultures, and identities are increasingly disappearing due to government policies that often prevent their preservation or systematically aim at assimilating indigenous peoples into mainstream societies. This study is of significance in explaining the dynamic relationship among these states’ ideologies, strategies, and indigenous populations’ reactions. Implications provide various stakeholders at all levels with a better understanding of how national beliefs about indigenous policies relate to their strategy use.
Keywords: indigenous language, indigenous culture, indigenous identity, indigenous education, indigenous police
This document discusses national integration in India. It begins by defining a nation and national integration, noting that though India has great diversity, national identity is supreme. It emphasizes the importance of national integration given India's size and diversity. The national movement against British rule helped foster national identity by bringing different groups together for independence. The Indian Constitution also promotes national integration through its provisions. Secularism is discussed as an essential condition for national integration in India.
Indigenous peoples are estimated to number over 370 million spread across 70 countries. They descended from those inhabiting areas before conquest or colonization and maintain distinct social, cultural and political traditions from dominant societies. They include groups like Native Americans, Inuit, Aboriginal Australians and Maori. While no single definition exists, indigenous identity is generally based on self-identification and historical continuity with pre-colonial societies, strong ties to traditional lands and cultures, and non-dominance within nation states. Indigenous peoples seek recognition of their identities and rights to lands, cultures and self-determination.
It described the basic concepts of scheduled tribe and scheduled caste, and their journey of development. Why their development is needed? concepts of equality, equity, and justice
Exposición de Dhansidh Lakra en el Seminario Internacional: Modelos de Desarrollo, Desarrollo Rural y Economía Indígena.
Un evento organizado por CIPCA Bolivia.
This document discusses national integration in India. It begins by defining national integration as bringing culturally discrete groups together into a single territorial unit and instilling loyalty to that unit. It notes India's diversity across religions, castes, ethnicities, languages, and cultures. This pluralism and the need to protect national interests and build nationhood make national integration important. The document outlines threats to integration like insurgent groups, parochialism, terrorism, and economic disparities, as well as external threats from Pakistan. It concludes that national integration must be built in people's minds through respect and love for their country.
This document discusses ethnic and religious conflicts in Nigeria and their impact on higher education. It notes that Nigeria has over 400 ethnic groups and two major religions (Islam and Christianity) and that cultural diversity has been politicized by elites in a way that hinders national progress. Ethnic conflicts negatively affect resource allocation and public institutions. The document focuses on how ethnic groups aggressively compete for control over federal universities, seeing them as a means of elite formation and local economic benefits. This has led to controversies over vice chancellor appointments and student/staff recruitment along ethnic lines. The document argues for fostering a culture of dialogue and understanding between groups to help resolve conflicts in Nigeria's multicultural society.
Educaterer India is an unique combination of passion driven into a hobby which makes an awesome profession. We carve the lives of enthusiastic candidates to a perfect professional who can impress upon the mindsets of the industry, while following the established traditions, can dare to set new standards to follow. We don't want you to be the part of the crowd, rather we like to make you the reason of the crowd.
Today's Effort For A Better Tomorrow
The document summarizes a publication about the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) aimed at indigenous adolescents aged 13-18. It acknowledges the contributions of indigenous peoples to global diversity and their knowledge in areas like traditional medicine and environmental protection. It explains that UNDRIP establishes minimum standards for the survival, dignity and well-being of indigenous peoples and addresses their civil, political, social, economic and cultural rights. The publication was created in collaboration with indigenous youth to help them learn about and ensure implementation of the Declaration.
Hari Kishore Chakma E Inclusion And Media For Indigenous Peoplesrogerharris
The document summarizes the work of Hari Kishore Chakma, a staff reporter for the Daily Prothom Alo newspaper in Bangladesh. He regularly reports on indigenous peoples issues in the Chittagong Hill Tracts region of Bangladesh and works to increase media coverage of and mobilization around indigenous peoples rights and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. However, he faces challenges of prejudice, a lack of awareness in media, and issues being viewed only through a political lens. He intends to continue disseminating information on and mobilizing support for the UN declaration and indigenous peoples rights.
The document discusses issues facing Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India. It provides background on tribal populations globally and in India. PVTGs face vulnerabilities from natural factors like geography and environment as well as man-made factors like development projects. The document includes tables with population data on PVTGs in different states and recommendations from a national consultation on PVTG development, including creating a rights-respecting environment, sustainable livelihood strategies, and participatory development. It stresses the need for region-specific plans, periodic assessment, local resource use, and accountability of implementing agencies.
Civil society engagement in ASEAN has increased gradually in recent years. While civil society was not initially a key part of ASEAN's decision-making, there is now greater openness from ASEAN and its member states to allow wider stakeholder participation. Civil society organizations have also shown more interest in engaging with ASEAN. Efforts to link ASEAN with the people in the region began in the late 1990s through platforms like the ASEAN People's Assembly. By 2005, civil society groups began coordinating more directly with ASEAN policymaking bodies. Since then, annual ASEAN Civil Society Conferences and People's Forums have provided opportunities for civil society to engage regionally with ASEAN leaders and advocate for their priorities. While
The repression of ethnic minority activists in myanmarKyaw Ya
This document summarizes Amnesty International's research on the repression of ethnic minority activists in Myanmar between 2007 and 2009. It finds that Myanmar's government has targeted members of ethnic minorities through arbitrary arrests, imprisonment, torture and extrajudicial killings for their opposition to the government. Specifically, it details how ethnic minority activists from groups like the Rakhine, Karenni and Kachin faced repression for opposing the 2008 constitution and in the lead up to Myanmar's 2010 elections. The report concludes that Myanmar's government has violated international human rights law in its repression of ethnic minority political dissent. It calls on the government to lift restrictions on political freedoms and release all political prisoners ahead of the elections.
The analysis driven from the above research is that there are no profound laws made by any countries regarding the protection of their heritage culture.
Please like the slide and share your comments.
This document discusses tribal development administration and management in India. It provides an overview of the major objectives of tribal development which include understanding tribal society and culture, assessing tribal development approaches and strategies, ensuring stakeholder mobilization and capacity building, and developing skills in project management and implementation. It also discusses understanding tribal development administration with a focus on ethics and values. The document outlines some key commissions and committees related to tribal development in India and sources of funding for tribal development programs. It discusses concepts like participatory development, the role of community based organizations and non-governmental organizations in tribal development.
Synthesis Paper Indigenous peoples’ rights to lands, territories and resources Dr Lendy Spires
This document summarizes indigenous peoples' rights to lands, territories, and resources under international law. It discusses key elements of these rights as defined in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and ILO Convention No. 169. These include rights to territories and natural resources, as well as collective land rights based on traditional occupation. The document also examines challenges faced by indigenous peoples in different regions and recommends that the International Land Coalition adopt a specific policy and targeted initiatives to support indigenous land rights.
The document discusses the need to preserve tribal and indigenous cultures in India. It outlines several ways to achieve this, including through documentation of material and non-material art forms, institutionalization of cultural learning, recognition of artists, and awareness programs. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs leads various government bodies that work to scientifically preserve exotic tribal heritage through techniques like documentation, establishing research institutions, and empowering local communities and organizations.
The document discusses the history and current status of tribal communities in India. It describes how tribals were better off during Mughal rule, facing exploitation during British colonial rule through systems like jagirdari and zamindari. Currently, tribals face many problems including poverty, health issues, lack of education, cultural isolation, economic marginalization, and displacement. Insurgency groups like Naxalites have found support among some tribals due to government failures and linguistic barriers. The document argues that media could help tribal development by increasing awareness of tribal rights, interviewing tribals to raise their issues, and sensitizing students to tribal concerns through workshops. However, some note that commercialization and lack of development journalism limit media
Indonesian Multiculturalism: Risks and ChallengesIJRESJOURNAL
ABSTRACT. Indonesia is a multicultural country with full diversity. Indonesia consists of diverse culture, local language, race, ethnicity, religion and beliefs, etc. There are risks and challenges of diversity in Indonesia. Therefore, such diversity must be managed properly to avoid problems and conflicts. Lately, it appears many of the problems of diversity in Indonesia. Conflicts among tribes, religions, beliefs and groups are frequent. Conflict occurs in the form of thought and physical. Although the conflict is normal in a multicultural society, the conflict will be a major issue if not managed properly. This article discusses the risks and challenges faced by Indonesia in managing cultural diversity.
Tribal development in India has been a focus of the national development plans since independence. The constitution provides protections for scheduled tribes and establishes advisory councils and welfare departments to protect tribal rights and promote development. There are over 500 tribal communities notified as scheduled tribes, concentrated in central and northeast India. The five year plans aim to raise productivity, rehabilitate bonded labourers, and provide education and training programs with a special focus on women and children.
Policy Debates and Indigenous Education: The Trialectic of Language, Culture,...Che-Wei Lee
As one of co-authors, I presented several policy debate topics and the increasingly important role education institutions play in preserving indigenous languages, culture, and identity. Five country case examples include China, Mexico, Taiwan, Uganda, and the United States. The historical-narrative methodology, including document, policy, and discourse analyses, is used to examine the indigenous policies followed by the debates. The findings show that most indigenous people suffer, in one degree or another, from poverty, discrimination, and marginalization issues. Most indigenous peoples make up about one third of the 900 million extremely poor rural people living on the earth. Indigenous languages, cultures, and identities are increasingly disappearing due to government policies that often prevent their preservation or systematically aim at assimilating indigenous peoples into mainstream societies. This study is of significance in explaining the dynamic relationship among these states’ ideologies, strategies, and indigenous populations’ reactions. Implications provide various stakeholders at all levels with a better understanding of how national beliefs about indigenous policies relate to their strategy use.
Keywords: indigenous language, indigenous culture, indigenous identity, indigenous education, indigenous police
This document discusses national integration in India. It begins by defining a nation and national integration, noting that though India has great diversity, national identity is supreme. It emphasizes the importance of national integration given India's size and diversity. The national movement against British rule helped foster national identity by bringing different groups together for independence. The Indian Constitution also promotes national integration through its provisions. Secularism is discussed as an essential condition for national integration in India.
Indigenous peoples are estimated to number over 370 million spread across 70 countries. They descended from those inhabiting areas before conquest or colonization and maintain distinct social, cultural and political traditions from dominant societies. They include groups like Native Americans, Inuit, Aboriginal Australians and Maori. While no single definition exists, indigenous identity is generally based on self-identification and historical continuity with pre-colonial societies, strong ties to traditional lands and cultures, and non-dominance within nation states. Indigenous peoples seek recognition of their identities and rights to lands, cultures and self-determination.
It described the basic concepts of scheduled tribe and scheduled caste, and their journey of development. Why their development is needed? concepts of equality, equity, and justice
Exposición de Dhansidh Lakra en el Seminario Internacional: Modelos de Desarrollo, Desarrollo Rural y Economía Indígena.
Un evento organizado por CIPCA Bolivia.
This document discusses national integration in India. It begins by defining national integration as bringing culturally discrete groups together into a single territorial unit and instilling loyalty to that unit. It notes India's diversity across religions, castes, ethnicities, languages, and cultures. This pluralism and the need to protect national interests and build nationhood make national integration important. The document outlines threats to integration like insurgent groups, parochialism, terrorism, and economic disparities, as well as external threats from Pakistan. It concludes that national integration must be built in people's minds through respect and love for their country.
This document discusses ethnic and religious conflicts in Nigeria and their impact on higher education. It notes that Nigeria has over 400 ethnic groups and two major religions (Islam and Christianity) and that cultural diversity has been politicized by elites in a way that hinders national progress. Ethnic conflicts negatively affect resource allocation and public institutions. The document focuses on how ethnic groups aggressively compete for control over federal universities, seeing them as a means of elite formation and local economic benefits. This has led to controversies over vice chancellor appointments and student/staff recruitment along ethnic lines. The document argues for fostering a culture of dialogue and understanding between groups to help resolve conflicts in Nigeria's multicultural society.
Educaterer India is an unique combination of passion driven into a hobby which makes an awesome profession. We carve the lives of enthusiastic candidates to a perfect professional who can impress upon the mindsets of the industry, while following the established traditions, can dare to set new standards to follow. We don't want you to be the part of the crowd, rather we like to make you the reason of the crowd.
Today's Effort For A Better Tomorrow
The document summarizes a publication about the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) aimed at indigenous adolescents aged 13-18. It acknowledges the contributions of indigenous peoples to global diversity and their knowledge in areas like traditional medicine and environmental protection. It explains that UNDRIP establishes minimum standards for the survival, dignity and well-being of indigenous peoples and addresses their civil, political, social, economic and cultural rights. The publication was created in collaboration with indigenous youth to help them learn about and ensure implementation of the Declaration.
Hari Kishore Chakma E Inclusion And Media For Indigenous Peoplesrogerharris
The document summarizes the work of Hari Kishore Chakma, a staff reporter for the Daily Prothom Alo newspaper in Bangladesh. He regularly reports on indigenous peoples issues in the Chittagong Hill Tracts region of Bangladesh and works to increase media coverage of and mobilization around indigenous peoples rights and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. However, he faces challenges of prejudice, a lack of awareness in media, and issues being viewed only through a political lens. He intends to continue disseminating information on and mobilizing support for the UN declaration and indigenous peoples rights.
The document discusses issues facing Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India. It provides background on tribal populations globally and in India. PVTGs face vulnerabilities from natural factors like geography and environment as well as man-made factors like development projects. The document includes tables with population data on PVTGs in different states and recommendations from a national consultation on PVTG development, including creating a rights-respecting environment, sustainable livelihood strategies, and participatory development. It stresses the need for region-specific plans, periodic assessment, local resource use, and accountability of implementing agencies.
Civil society engagement in ASEAN has increased gradually in recent years. While civil society was not initially a key part of ASEAN's decision-making, there is now greater openness from ASEAN and its member states to allow wider stakeholder participation. Civil society organizations have also shown more interest in engaging with ASEAN. Efforts to link ASEAN with the people in the region began in the late 1990s through platforms like the ASEAN People's Assembly. By 2005, civil society groups began coordinating more directly with ASEAN policymaking bodies. Since then, annual ASEAN Civil Society Conferences and People's Forums have provided opportunities for civil society to engage regionally with ASEAN leaders and advocate for their priorities. While
The repression of ethnic minority activists in myanmarKyaw Ya
This document summarizes Amnesty International's research on the repression of ethnic minority activists in Myanmar between 2007 and 2009. It finds that Myanmar's government has targeted members of ethnic minorities through arbitrary arrests, imprisonment, torture and extrajudicial killings for their opposition to the government. Specifically, it details how ethnic minority activists from groups like the Rakhine, Karenni and Kachin faced repression for opposing the 2008 constitution and in the lead up to Myanmar's 2010 elections. The report concludes that Myanmar's government has violated international human rights law in its repression of ethnic minority political dissent. It calls on the government to lift restrictions on political freedoms and release all political prisoners ahead of the elections.
Civil Society Engagement in ASEAN (Yuyun Wahyuningrum)Yuyun Wahyuningrum
This document discusses civil society engagement with ASEAN. It notes that for the first 30 years of ASEAN's existence, civil society had a history of non-engagement and mutual distrust with ASEAN. However, the ASEAN Charter introduced language on peoples' participation. There remains a lack of formal mechanisms for civil society participation. The document examines perspectives on civil society and outlines various civil society platforms that have engaged ASEAN bodies over the years, including the ASEAN Civil Society Conference and ASEAN Peoples' Forum. It also analyzes strategies for civil society, discussing both insider and outsider approaches to advocacy and notes Indonesia's experience engaging ASEAN from both inside and outside.
This document provides a summary of the authors' journey through Myanmar, beginning in Yangon and traveling to Sittwe in Rakhine State. Some key points:
1) The authors fly from Yangon to Sittwe (Akyab), the capital of Rakhine State, to explore the region and understand the situation in one of Myanmar's most isolated areas.
2) Sittwe is an interesting town historically and politically, as protests often start there before spreading. It will likely see major changes with new Chinese oil and gas pipelines being constructed.
3) While in Sittwe, the authors observe many people claiming the ethnicity of "Myanmar Muslim" instead of Rohing
World wild life's elephant and evory tradse in myanmarKyaw Ya
This document discusses the elephant and ivory trade in Myanmar. It finds that illegal trade in ivory and other elephant products remains widespread in Myanmar, especially in border markets. In 2006, TRAFFIC surveyed markets in Myanmar and border markets in Thailand and China, finding over 9,000 pieces of ivory and 16 whole tusks for sale, representing an estimated 116 elephants. It also documents reports of around 250 live elephants being exported from Myanmar to neighboring countries in the last ten years, mostly to supply the tourism industry in Thailand. The illegal killing of elephants and cross-border trade continues due to lack of enforcement of wildlife laws.
3 Things Every Sales Team Needs to Be Thinking About in 2017Drift
Thinking about your sales team's goals for 2017? Drift's VP of Sales shares 3 things you can do to improve conversion rates and drive more revenue.
Read the full story on the Drift blog here: http://blog.drift.com/sales-team-tips
How to Become a Thought Leader in Your NicheLeslie Samuel
Are bloggers thought leaders? Here are some tips on how you can become one. Provide great value, put awesome content out there on a regular basis, and help others.
This document discusses indigenous peoples in Southeast Asia. It begins by defining indigenous peoples and explaining that they prefer to use the names their ancestors gave them rather than terms imposed by outsiders. It notes that indigenous peoples have distinct cultures and strong connections to their traditional lands and resources. The document then distinguishes indigenous peoples from ethnic minorities, noting that indigenous peoples have collective rights under the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. These collective rights include self-determination, land and resource rights, free prior and informed consent, development and cultural rights. Finally, it acknowledges the common issues indigenous peoples face, such as non-recognition as indigenous peoples by some governments in the region.
The document provides information about ASEAN, including its founding members, additional members, population, area, religions, GDP, and cultural diversity. It discusses how culture is addressed in ASEAN's three communities (political-security, economic, socio-cultural). The ASEAN Human Rights Declaration recognizes cultural rights. The ASEAN Declaration on Cultural Heritage frames a regional order based on equal cultural access and participation. It recognizes culture's role in viability, human development, and regional identity. However, culture has also been used to limit rights based on morality and challenge universality. Case studies in Indonesia show how cultural rights can marginalize women, LGBTIQ groups, and minorities.
Sabeen presented at the 14th Indigenous conference on the topic of indigenous people and the role of the UN. There is no official UN definition of "indigenous" but they are generally culturally distinct ethnic groups native to lands colonized by others, with strong ties to territories. Indigenous peoples face issues like lack of political representation, economic marginalization, and lack of access to services. The UN supports indigenous peoples' rights to survival, dignity, security, and well-being through declarations and helping shape institutions that uphold the rule of law. Reforms are needed so laws respect all members of the global community.
This document discusses indigenous peoples' customary land rights in Africa and the importance of recognizing customary law. It makes three key points:
1) Land and natural resources are central to indigenous peoples' livelihoods, cultures, and identities in Africa. Indigenous peoples have strong customary practices and traditions governing communal land ownership and use.
2) However, states often fail to recognize indigenous peoples' land rights and aspirations of communal land ownership under customary law. This exclusion discriminates against indigenous peoples.
3) Recognizing indigenous peoples' customary laws is crucial to protecting their land rights. Comparative examples show that customary laws accord protection to collective land rights and deserve legal recognition. Formalizing customary land ownership could help secure
Policy Debates and Indigenous Education: The Trialectic of Language, Culture,...Che-Wei Lee
In this chapter, we explore several policy debate topics associated with indigenous education with a focus on the issues of indigenous languages, cultures, and identity. Highly political by nature, the terms indigeneity and indigenous rights are central to most policy debates with direct implications on social justice issues, human rights, and education in general. Besides examining global indigenous declarations that directly influence indigenous education, we also examine policy debate issues within five country contexts—in China, Mexico, Taiwan, Uganda, and the United States. We use the term indigenous genocide to account for any former, current, or future government policy that intentionally causes the assimilation of indigenous peoples into the dominant national culture. Examples are given in the five case countries of how indigenous genocide can lead to the genocide of indigenous peoples’ languages, cultures, and/or identities. The chapter concludes by highlighting the central role indigenous education can play in being able to curb or reverse indigenous genocidal policies. Crucial to reversing anti-indigenous policies is the involvement and empowerment of indigenous peoples in every facet of the policy planning and implementation processes.
This document discusses the development of minority rights from past centuries to the present. It begins by examining definitions of the term "minority" that have been proposed, noting there is no universally accepted definition. It then discusses the need for minority rights protections given that minorities are often politically marginalized and vulnerable to discrimination. The document traces how minority rights developed after World War I through the League of Nations, and then the United Nations adopted further protections like the 1992 Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities. Key international legal instruments that protect minority rights are also identified.
The document provides information about indigenous peoples in the Philippines. It defines indigenous peoples as the original or native inhabitants of a place. It then lists and describes the main indigenous groups found in the Philippines, including Negritos, Cordillera People, Mangyans, and Lumad. For each group, it discusses their traditional territories, cultures, and livelihoods. The document emphasizes that indigenous peoples have strong connections to the lands and environments where they are native. It highlights the importance of protecting indigenous peoples' rights, identities, and traditional knowledge systems.
This document discusses promoting Philippine culture and values in the region. It describes the cultural diversity in the region, including various indigenous groups that maintain distinct practices and value systems. It also outlines some key challenges faced by indigenous peoples, such as lack of involvement in development processes, poverty, unresolved ancestral domain claims, overlapping land tenure issues, lack of health services, outdated population data, and lack of documentation of indigenous cultures. The document proposes strategies to address these challenges, including promoting social justice, issuing ancestral domain titles, implementing laws protecting indigenous rights, and providing basic services, livelihood opportunities, and cultural documentation.
The document summarizes Eric Listening Owl's intervention at a North American Civil Society Consultation regarding water, sanitation, and human settlements issues as they relate to indigenous peoples. The intervention stressed that indigenous peoples have a unique relationship with the land and ecosystems, view water as a human right, and have faced oppression and marginalization through colonial policies. It argued that indigenous peoples should have a strong voice in decisions affecting the environment. The intervention then focused on issues facing indigenous peoples in the U.S., including a lack of sufficient support programs, varying levels of recognition between federally, state, and non-recognized groups, and a need for community-based sustainable development plans to reduce poverty. It concluded by calling for action
International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Invention (IJHSSI) is an international journal intended for professionals and researchers in all fields of Humanities and Social Science. IJHSSI publishes research articles and reviews within the whole field Humanities and Social Science, new teaching methods, assessment, validation and the impact of new technologies and it will continue to provide information on the latest trends and developments in this ever-expanding subject. The publications of papers are selected through double peer reviewed to ensure originality, relevance, and readability. The articles published in our journal can be accessed online.
- Acknowledge the diversity of Indigenous contexts and experiences in Africa rather than applying frameworks from other regions.
- Center African Indigenous organizations like IPACC and empower African Indigenous leaders' advocacy at the UN and African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights.
- Incorporate African Indigenous Traditional Ecological Knowledges into global discussions about Indigenous knowledge systems and their role in addressing issues like climate change.
- Support efforts to document African Indigenous languages and knowledge systems that remain undocumented and promote intergenerational transmission of these knowledges.
- Address misunderstand
This document summarizes a study on tribal development in India. It discusses how tribes were categorized by the British colonial administration and how the independent Indian government continued to schedule tribes. It outlines the challenges of ensuring social justice and development for tribes, who constitute some of the weakest sections of Indian society. The document then discusses various commissions and committees established to examine tribal issues and make recommendations. It analyzes tribal development policies and programs implemented under India's Five Year Plans, highlighting strategies used such as tribal sub-plans and area development approaches.
11. November 22: Introduction to Environmental Knowledges in Africa
• Mbaria, John & Mordecai Ogada. 2016. Chapter 2: “Conservation NGO’s Grand Delusion” in
The Big Conservation Lie: The Untold Story of Wildlife Conservation in Kenya. Lens & Pens LLC.
• Baofo, Y.A., Saito, O., Kato, S., Kamiyama, C., Takeuchi, K. M. Nakahara. 2015. “The role of tra-
ditional ecological knowledge in ecosystem services management: the case of four rural com-
munities in Northern Ghana”. International Journal of Biodiversity Science, Ecosystem Services & Management. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/21513732.2015.1124454
• IPACC. 2016. “An Introduction to integrating African Indigenous & Traditional Knowledge in National Adaptation Plans, Programmes of Action, Platforms and Policies”. https://ipacc.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/indigenous_knowledge.pdf
• Ibrahim, Hindou Oumarou. 2019. “Indigenous Knowledge meets Science to Solve Climate Change”. TED talk. https://www.ted.com/talks/hindou_oumarou_ibrahim_indigenous_knowl-
edge_meets_science_to_solve_climate_change
Post class materials:
Prof Todd fact-checking Prof Todd -- US military is a big polluter but saying it is the biggest was an overstatement https://weaversway.coop/shuttle-online/2020/04/us-military-world-leader-pollution-and-wasteful-use-fossil-fuels
decolonizing conservation reading list (Sara Cannon): https://saracannon.ca/2020/06/27/decolonizing-conservation-a-reading-list/
Australia is made up of people from various ethnic and racial backgrounds. However, despite the diversity in the racial ethnicity that exist among the people here, there are two major divisions that are used to define or classify these differences that exist. A person may be classified as either Indigenous or non-indigenous. This classification is made on the basis of one’s origin and physical attributes or origin. Despite the division that one belongs to, there are a number of advantages and disadvantages that either of these group faces (Milness, 2001 p.44).Considering that the world has evolved and people in this century have adopted modern civilization, there are silent voices among the two groups that claim that the two groups have concerning their identity. These concerns are based on the claims that the non-indigenous people define and identify the indigenous people basing on racial grounds.
Caliba autonomy as a mechanism to address exclusion and enhance participation...Philippine Press Institute
This document discusses regional autonomy and self-governance as mechanisms to address the historical exclusion of minorities in the Philippines and enhance their political participation. It outlines how the 1987 Constitution and Indigenous Peoples' Rights Act recognize the rights of indigenous groups to self-determination and ancestral lands. However, some court cases have challenged these rights and concerns remain regarding the draft federal constitution. The document argues that autonomy and upholding indigenous rights will strengthen inclusion and that these rights should be firmly established in the constitution.
The document discusses indigenous peoples in Africa. It defines indigenous peoples as ethnic groups who have the earliest historical connection to a geographical region and have maintained aspects of their distinct culture and society. Examples given are the San people, Batwa, and Amazigh/Tuareg. Characteristics include practicing unique cultures threatened by dominant societies, dependence on traditional lands, and experiences of discrimination, marginalization, and human rights violations. Misconceptions are that advocating for indigenous rights means special rights or that the term does not apply in Africa where all people are indigenous. The document aims to illustrate indigenous groups in Africa and discuss their human rights concerns.
This document provides an overview on gender and indigenous peoples. It discusses how indigenous women face multiple forms of discrimination and challenges to enjoying their human rights fully. They experience higher rates of poverty and violence. However, indigenous women have advocated for their rights at the local, national, and international levels, including being leaders in the negotiations of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Applying a gender perspective to issues facing indigenous peoples is important to understand their differentiated needs and experiences. It can help reduce disparities between indigenous men and women in areas like access to resources and participation in development initiatives.
The minorities recognized under the Indian constitution are Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, Parsis, and Jains. In 2014, Jains were added to the list of recognized minorities. Minority rights apply to citizens of India who are part of a minority group residing in India. Discrimination against minorities has frequently led to their exclusion from citizenship in newly independent states. This exclusion deprives many stateless persons, who often belong to ethnic, religious or linguistic minorities, of citizenship.
The presentatio on the Protection of the Stateless Persons in ASEAN: Opportunities and Challenges in the First Global Forum on Statelessness, 15-17 September 2014
Civil society organizations have a history of engagement with ASEAN on human rights issues. While ASEAN has established human rights bodies like AICHR, they lack protection mandates and independence. CSOs advocate for AICHR to have powers like a complaint mechanism and ability to conduct country visits. CSOs engage ASEAN through various platforms, but face challenges like lack of access and political will from ASEAN. The establishment of human rights bodies is a step forward, but more needs to be done to strengthen protections and CSO participation in the regional human rights system.
This document discusses human rights in ASEAN countries. It notes that while ASEAN member country constitutions guarantee various human rights to varying degrees, human rights continue to be a sensitive issue in some countries. It provides tables outlining the specific human rights guaranteed in the constitutions of each ASEAN member state and which international human rights treaties they have ratified. It also summarizes the human rights issues and recommendations different ASEAN countries received and accepted during their first Universal Periodic Review process with the UN.
The document discusses opportunities for civil society organizations (CSOs) during the 2014 review of the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights' (AICHR) terms of reference. It recommends that CSOs submit analyses and recommendations to the working group reviewing the TOR to make AICHR more independent, accessible, responsive, and able to protect and promote human rights. Specifically, it suggests expanding AICHR's mandate to include fact-finding missions and complaint investigations, and ensuring its members are selected through an open process.
The document discusses youth participation in the ASEAN Community. It notes that ASEAN was established in 1967 and adopted a charter in 2008. While ASEAN has made commitments to youth development since the 1980s, the document argues that ASEAN needs to shift from a state-centered focus to a more people-centered approach that emphasizes empowering youth. It suggests that youth can influence community building by speaking with a unified voice to their governments and using social media and other platforms. The ASEAN Youth Forum, initiated in 2008, provides an annual platform for youth participation. Civil society organizations also engage with ASEAN bodies through various conferences and forums.
This document discusses the role of NGOs in international governance and decision making processes. It notes that in 1972, 250 NGOs attended the UN Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm, helping to develop rules for NGO participation and engaging in parallel forums. This marked the beginning of increasing NGO involvement in global conferences related to the environment and sustainable development. By 1992, over 1,400 NGOs were accredited to the Rio Earth Summit and over 25,000 individuals participated in a parallel NGO forum. The document outlines how NGO participation has continued growing, with over 3,200 organizations accredited to the 2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg.
This document discusses ASEAN's role in preventing mass atrocities and human rights issues. It provides context on ASEAN frameworks such as the ASEAN Political-Security Blueprint, ASEAN Political Security Community, ASEAN Human Rights systems, ASEAN Institute for Peace and Reconciliation, and ASEAN Regional Forum. It notes limitations of ASEAN due to its emphasis on sovereignty and non-interference. It suggests a bilateral approach through a progressive member state as a potential way to discuss human rights issues in Myanmar. It also raises whether Myanmar's upcoming ASEAN chairmanship could provide an opportunity to gain momentum on these topics.
ASEAN and its roles in preventing mass atrocities (Yuyun Wahyuningrum, 2013)Yuyun Wahyuningrum
This document provides an overview of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), including its founding, members, goals of establishing an ASEAN Community by 2015 across three pillars - political-security, economic and socio-cultural. It notes that while ASEAN aims to promote human rights, peace and stability, its non-interference principle and emphasis on sovereignty have limited its ability to address mass atrocities. The document also discusses obstacles like the lack of democracy, imbalanced development concepts, and arguments of "Asian values" that have hindered ASEAN's role in preventing mass atrocities and crisis response.
Human Rights Cooperation in ASEAN (Yuyun Wahyuningrum, 2013)Yuyun Wahyuningrum
The document discusses cooperation among human rights mechanisms in ASEAN, specifically the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) and the ASEAN Commission on the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Women and Children (ACWC). It outlines the mandates of AICHR and ACWC related to enhancing regional cooperation on human rights. It also analyzes levels of cooperation between the mechanisms, including substantive, procedural, administrative, informal and formal cooperation as well as the scope of cooperation on cross-cutting issues. Challenges to cooperation like ASEAN's non-interference policy are discussed.
- Each ASEAN member state will appoint a representative to the ASEAN Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) who is accountable to their appointing government.
- Member states should consult relevant stakeholders as required by their internal processes in appointing representatives.
- Indonesia's appointment process for their AICHR representative will involve consultation, identifying candidates, accepting applications over 4 weeks, selecting a candidate, and appointing a representative by the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
ASEAN Human Rights Mechanisms (Yuyun Wahyuningrum, 2012)Yuyun Wahyuningrum
The document discusses the history and development of human rights mechanisms in ASEAN, including the establishment of various commissions and conventions. It describes the roles of the AICHR, ACWC, and ACMW in promoting human rights. While these bodies do not have enforcement capabilities, they advise governments and can advocate on issues. The document also reviews the ASEAN Human Rights Declaration and calls for strengthening the AICHR's mandate through democratic guidelines and fact-finding missions to improve accountability.
Civil Society Recommendation to the SG of ASEAN and the ASEAN Secretariat, 1 ...Yuyun Wahyuningrum
1) Representatives from civil society organizations in Southeast Asian countries met with the ASEAN Secretary-General to provide recommendations on improving human rights and civil society engagement in ASEAN.
2) They expressed concerns that human rights have not been sufficiently integrated in ASEAN Community blueprints and called for more efforts to address issues like migrant workers, trafficking, and discrimination.
3) The representatives urged the Secretary-General to institutionalize annual dialogues with civil society and ensure access for civil society to engage with ASEAN at all levels.
Civil Society Enaggement with the SG of ASEAN, the ASEAN Secretariat, CPR and...Yuyun Wahyuningrum
The document discusses a preparatory meeting for several ASEAN dialogues to take place in Jakarta from October 31st to November 3rd, 2013. It provides an agenda for the meetings, background information on previous CSO-ASEAN dialogues, and an overview of the Committee of Permanent Representatives (CPR) to ASEAN. The key points are:
1) The meeting will prepare participants for the 2nd ASEAN Community Dialogue with CPR, the 2013 Dialogue between ASEAN officials and CSO representatives, and the 2nd Jakarta Human Rights Dialogue.
2) Previous CSO-ASEAN dialogues have helped establish new initiatives like the ASEAN Community Dialogue and
Regional Limitations and Universality of Human Rights NormsYuyun Wahyuningrum
The document provides an overview of regional human rights systems in Europe, Africa, and the Americas and compares them to the emerging system in Southeast Asia. Some key similarities across regional systems include recognizing human rights as an objective in the founding treaty, conditioning membership on human rights criteria, effective implementation monitoring, and independent supervisory bodies like a commission or court to promote and protect rights. The ASEAN system differs in that its charter does not reference human rights criteria for membership and its 2012 Declaration emphasizes national laws over universalizing norms. Critics argue this makes rights too restrictive and vulnerable to limitations in practice.
Regional Limitations and Universality of Human Rights Norms
Minorities in ASEAN (Yuyun Wahyuningrum, 2013)
1. In Search of Bottom-Up PeopleCentered ASEAN Community:
Negotiating the Status of
Minorities in the region
Yuyun Wahyuningrum, Senior Advisor on ASEAN and
Human Rights, Human Rights Working Group, E-mail:
wahyuningrum@gmail.com
2. Introduction
Southeast Asia is characterized by great ethnic, cultural and religious
diversity, and is home to a large number of migrants from China and
India, dominant groups of Malays and Indonesians, as well as
indigenous peoples, hill tribes and many minority groups.
Vietnam, for instance, has 54 official ethnic groups.
Many ASEAN countries seem to aim at minimizing diversity within
the country, thereby developing programs that have the objective of
assimilating and controlling minorities into the norm of majorities.
At the same time, ASEAN has been silence in recognizing their
existence in its process of community building. Minorities are rather
seen as hindrance to development progress or as a threat to politicalsecurity by countries member of ASEAN.
3. In 1993, the Ministers and representatives of Asian states, meeting in Bangkok in
the context of preparations for the World Conference on Human Rights, adopted a
Declaration, known as „The Bangkok Declaration‟.
One of the commitments including in the Declaration was “the importance of
guaranteeing the human rights and fundamental freedoms of vulnerable groups
such as ethnic, national, racial, religious and linguistic minorities, migrant
workers, disabled persons, indigenous peoples, refugees and displaced persons”
(A/Conf.157/Asrm/8, A/Conf.157/ Pc/59, 7 April 1993)
However, in subsequent documents of ASEAN, no reference was made to
minorities or indigenous peoples.
In 2008 the ASEAN Charter proclaims the principle “to uphold the United
Nations Charter and international law, including international humanitarian
law, subscribed to by ASEAN Member States”. This proclamation calls for an
assessment of ASEAN‟s policy in compliance with international law in regard to
the protection of minorities and indigenous peoples, on the one hand, and the
policies and laws of member states of ASEAN, on the other.
ASEAN continues to emphasize on promoting cultural diversity in its officials
document. ASEAN‟s motto, further tempers the optimism with regard to the
protection of diversity. The motto, “One Vision, One Identity, One
Community”, indicates that the emphasis of ASEAN is on strengthening unity
rather than on promoting diversity.
4. RIGHTS & CULTURE in the 2000 ASEAN
Declaration On Cultural Heritage
Para 3 - FOUNDATION FOR A REGIONAL ORDER
Para 4 – REGIONAL VISIBILITY
Cultural rights and freedom are inherent in the human person who is the main agent and consequently
should be the principal beneficiary of, and participate actively in the realization of these
heritage, expressions and rights;
Para 6 – FORMATION OF REGIONAL IDENTITY
Cultural creativity and diversity guarantee the ultimate viability of ASEAN societies;
Para 5 – HUMAN DEVELOPMENT
A Regional order is based on equal access to cultural opportunities, equal participation in cultural
creativity and decision-making, and deep respect for the diversity of cultures and identities in
ASEAN, without distinction as to nationality, race, ethnicity, sex, language or religion;
Cultural traditions are an effective means of bringing together ASEAN peoples to recognize their
regional identity,
Para 7 – TOOLS TO UNITE PEOPLE AROUND SOUTHEAST ASIA
Cultural rights draws sustained inspiration from the deep historical, linguistic, and cultural unity and
linkages among Southeast Asian peoples
5. How Culture has been used to frame rights
in ASEAN?
As a limit to the realization of rights:
“…The exercise of human rights and fundamental freedoms shall be
subject only to such limitations as are determined by law solely for the
purpose of securing due recognition for the human rights and
fundamental freedoms of others, and to meet the just requirements of
national security, public order, public health, public safety, public
morality, as well as the general welfare of the peoples in a democratic
society” (Para 8 AHRD)
To signify the formation of regional identity/ challenge universality
“…At the same time, the realisation of human rights must be considered
in the regional and national context bearing in mind different
political, economic, legal, social, cultural, historical and religious
backgrounds.” (Para 7 AHRD)
“To promote human rights within the regional context, bearing in mind
national and regional particularities and mutual respect for different
historical, cultural and religious backgrounds, and taking into account the
balance between rights and responsibilities” (Article 1.4 TOR AICHR)
6. How Culture has been used to frame
rights in ASEAN?
Inherent part of the human rights
“Every person has the right, individually or in association with
others, to freely take part in cultural life, to enjoy the arts and
the benefits of scientific progress and its applications and to
benefit from the protection of the moral and material
interests resulting from any scientific, literary or appropriate
artistic production of which one is the author”. Article 32
to decide who can come in/out – indigenous people/ ethnic
minorities, refugees, Rohingya
To lightened the debate into the least common denominator
7. Definition
No legal definition of the term „minority‟ has been agreed in
international law. Individual States recognize a wide range of groups
domestically as minorities based on shared ethnic, cultural, religious
and/or linguistic characteristics.
In the absence of a formal definition, the existence of a minority group
can be assessed using objective and subjective criteria;
Objective criteria focus on the shared characteristics of the group
such as ethnicity, national origin, culture, language or religion.
Subjective criteria focus on two key points: the principle of selfidentification and the desire to preserve the group identity.
The size, access to power, vulnerability to exclusion and geography of
the group matters can be the factor in determining whether minority
protection is required. A group could constitute a majority within the
country but become a numerical minority within a sub-region.
8. Indigenous Peoples Rights and
Minority Rights
Indigenous
Peoples rights:
Self-determination
Collective land rights
Use of natural resources and
territories
Practice customary law
Environmental conservation
Protect traditional
knowledge, intellectual property, and
cultural heritage
Free, prior and informed consent to
measures that affect them or their
lands and territories
Minority rights:
to exist
to non-discrimination
to protection of their identity
to participate in public life and in
decision-making that affects them
9. The Constitutions of the Philippines, Thailand, Laos, and Indonesia recognize
the right of indigenous people, ethnic group, tribe, and traditional community
to conserve local custom and wisdom. However, each country offers different
definition and understanding regarding minorities.
Several Southeast Asian states seem to use their large ethnic diversity, and the
accompanying lack of conceptual clarity, for political purposes.
Laos and Vietnam, for instance, have a highly developed system of ethnic
classification, which they use for census purposes. Moreover, the main focus
of official policy is on the development of national unity by assimilation
rather than by providing separate or autonomous structures.
Indigenous peoples and minorities, often have similar concerns, particularly
from an economic, social and cultural rights perspective, and may be
competing for the same government resources or land.
States‟ programs and policies on minorities and indigenous peoples related to
development assistance, healthcare and education are often a cover for states
for (forced) acculturation, assimilation and resettlement and often contribute
to the degeneration of minorities and indigenous peoples.
10. The (forced) resettlement and displacement of minorities and indigenous
groups are often the result of the ambition of Southeast Asian governments
to develop from an economy based on agriculture towards an industrialized
economy.
Exploitation of natural resources such as oil, timber, rubber and minerals
and has massive implications for indigenous people who depend on the same
resources for their living..
Plantations are established and dams are built, causing the removal or
marginalization of these populations.
(Forced) resettlement of the indigenous peoples and minority groups from
the forests and mountains also occurs, and is often justified by governments
with the protection of the environment, national development and national
security.
Environmental protection in particular is often brought up as a justification
for the resettlement of indigenous peoples, as it is argued that the people‟s
way of living is detrimental to the environment.
Another form of resettlement is the movement of members (often poor
peasants) of the dominant group to areas in which the ethnic minorities
generally live, which is justified by reasons of over- population of the areas
in which the majority lives and by the claim of giving these peasants a better
future.
11. Conclusion
lack of formal recognition of, and respect for, the identity and culture of
minority often results in a denial of the rights to citizenship, to effective
participation in government and to the recognition of their distinctive
histories, cultures and lifestyles, notably in the context of national
development policies.
While promoting culture and its diversities, ASEAN does not
automatically link it with the rights of minorities.
This article argues that ASEAN is caught in the middle between the idea
of holding universal values as its common norms on one hand, and
dealing with national interests and political preference on minorities on
the other hand.
Unless ASEAN put an end in nourishing the suspicion over the specific
rights of the minorities, the regional project of being a more organized
and cohesive community will not be successful.
Editor's Notes
For instance, in an ASEAN document called ‘ASEAN Vision 2020’, adopted during the 30th anniversary of ASEAN in 1997, it was stated: “Our rich diversity has provided the strength and inspiration to us to help one another foster a strong sense of community” and that “we envision our rich human and natural resources contributing to our development and shared prosperity”. In 2003, this vision was reaffirmed in a subsequent ASEAN document called Bali Concord II. The new ASEAN Charter, which entered into force in December 2008,6 also omits to refer to minorities and indigenous peoples, but acknowledges the potential of ASEAN’s cultural diversity. One of the principles mentioned in the ASEAN Charter is: “respect for the different cultures, languages and religions of the peoples of ASEAN” The newly adopted ASEAN Human Rights Declaration excludes ethnic minorities and indigenous people as the holders of the acknowledged rights for the people in ASEAN.
Objective criteria: These categories derive from the only global standard on minorities, the UN Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities (UNDM) and article 27 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) concerning the rights of persons belonging to ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities. The term ‘race’ is sometimes used alongside ‘ethnicity’ in legislation on non-discrimination; this is not considered an endorsement of the notion of distinct races but is recognition that practices of racism and racial discrimination nevertheless persist and need to be combated. According to the principle of self-identification, individuals belonging to minority groups have the right to self-identify as a minority or to not self-identify as a minority. A minority community has the right to assert its status as a minority and thereby to claim minority rights. Individuals can claim their membership in a minority community on the basis of objective criteria, including shared ethnicity, culture, language and religion. The preservation of the minority group identity depends on the expressed will of the minority community
Special Rapporteur, Jose Martinez Cobo, offers the following “working definition”: “Indigenous communities, peoples and nations are those which, having a historical continuity with pre-invasion and pre-colonial societies that developed on their territories, consider themselves distinct from other sectors of the societies now prevailing in those territories, or parts of them. They form at present non-dominant sectors of society and are determined to preserve, develop and transmit to future generations their ancestral territories, and their ethnic identity, as the basis of their continued existence as peoples, in accordance with their own cultural patterns, social institutions and legal system. The rights of minorities, by contrast, are expressed in international law as individual rights of persons belonging to minorities. Some of these rights are exercised in parallel with others, for example, speaking a language or practicing a religion. Minorities often seek autonomy over their cultural, linguistic or religious lives. This may come in the form of non-territorial autonomy where minorities are dispersed or territorial autonomy if they are concentrated in a particular region. In addition, some minority groups (typically national minorities) may seek self-determination as ‘peoples’.