International Day of World’s Indigenous People 2024: Check Theme and History of this Day

Every year on August 9, people around the world come together to recognize and celebrate the diverse cultures, contributions and challenges faced by Indigenous peoples.

The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is a platform to amplify indigenous voices, promote self-determination and uphold indigenous rights. This article delves into the significance of this day, the history behind it, and the pressing issues that indigenous communities continue to face.

Indigenous peoples are the original inhabitants of their lands, passing on invaluable knowledge and traditions that have shaped the planet for thousands of years. Their deep connection to the environment and sustainable practices offer important insights into addressing global challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss.

What is the history of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous People?

In 1994, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed August 9 as the International Day of the World’s Indigenous People. The day commemorates the first session of the United Nations Working Group on Indigenous Populations, held in Geneva in 1982. This decision marked a crucial step in recognizing the unique situations and aspirations of indigenous peoples around the world.

The UNESCO website states: “To raise awareness of the needs of these population groups, the International Day of the World’s Indigenous People is observed every year on 9 August. The date was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in resolution 49/214 of December 1994 and marks the date of the first meeting of the Working Group on Indigenous Populations of the United Nations Sub-Commission on the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights, held in Geneva in 1982.”

What is the significance of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous People?

The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, held every year on 9 August, is an important platform for:

  • Raising awareness: It highlights the plight of indigenous peoples around the world, who are often marginalized and face threats to their culture, land and livelihoods.
  • Protecting Rights: This day highlights the importance of upholding the rights of indigenous peoples, including their rights to self-determination, cultural preservation, and access to resources.
  • Recognize contributions: Acknowledge the significant contributions of indigenous peoples to biodiversity conservation, traditional knowledge and sustainable development.
  • Promoting Diversity: The day celebrates the richness of Indigenous cultures, languages ​​and worldviews, contributing to global cultural diversity.
  • Fostering collaboration: Encouraging collaboration between Indigenous communities, governments and international organizations to address challenges and build a more inclusive future.

What is the theme for the International Day of the World’s Indigenous People in 2024?

The theme for the 2024 International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is “Protecting the rights of indigenous peoples in voluntary isolation and initial contact”.

This theme highlights the critical importance of safeguarding the rights and well-being of indigenous communities who choose to live away from mainstream society.

The United Nations mentioned: “The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples in 2024 focuses on ‘Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact’. Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact are the best protectors of forests. When their collective rights to lands and territories are protected, forests and their societies thrive. Their survival is essential not only to protecting our planet, but also to preserving cultural and linguistic diversity.”

Read | Happy Nag Panchami 2024: 30+ Wishes, Quotes, Messages to Share on WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram Status and Stories

Nagasaki Day 2024: Why bomb the city known as ‘Fat Man’?

Important dates in August 2024: list of national and international dates