People First

This document summarizes Stan Thekaekara's speech at the Fourth Annual Feasta Lecture in Ireland in 2002. The speech discusses: 1) Thekaekara's journey working with indigenous tribes in India over the past 28 years, and how establishing ACCORD helped tribes regain control over their land and forests. 2) Lessons learned about concepts in indigenous societies, including their view of no individual ownership of land, water, forests, which contrasts with capitalist and socialist economies. 3) Thekaekara will present a view from working with impoverished tribes, and propose solutions based on empowering the weakest communities.