The Facts and Norms Institute (FNI) and the American Society of International Law (ASIL) are pleased to announce the release of the latest edition of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Interest Group (RIPIG) Newsletter, covering the period from January to June 2024. This issue continues to build on the successful collaboration between FNI and ASIL, dedicated to highlighting key developments in indigenous rights.
Henrique Napoleão Alves, Director of FNI, spearheaded the editorial efforts, supported by assistant editors Felipe Martins Anawate, João Fernando Martins Posso, Luisa Lobato Oliveira, and Sarah Ebram Alvarenga. This issue also welcomes Yuri Mantilla as the new Co-Chair of RIPIG, succeeding Shea Esterling, whose dedication over the past three years is greatly appreciated.
"This newsletter serves as an essential platform for raising awareness and advocating for the rights of indigenous peoples globally," said Alves. He also acknowledged the vital contributions of the assistant editors, stating, "The dedication and hard work of Felipe, João, Luisa, and Sarah have been instrumental in producing this comprehensive issue."
Key highlights of this issue include:
Indigenous Rights Developments: Comprehensive updates on significant legal and social events affecting indigenous rights worldwide. This section includes detailed accounts of various issues, such as the situation of the Brazilian Yanomami territory, indigenous participation at the World Economic Forum's Annual Meeting, and the reclamation of pre-Hispanic artifacts by Peru. Other developments include the ongoing challenges faced by indigenous communities in Ecuador in the fight against oil extraction in the Yasuni reserve, and the critical situation of indigenous communities in India displaced due to development projects.
Recommendations from UN and Treaty Bodies: Insights and recommendations from various UN bodies and treaty organizations concerning the rights of indigenous peoples. The newsletter covers crucial reports and statements from the UN Human Rights Committee, the UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and others, emphasizing the need for protecting indigenous rights in different global contexts.
UN Statements and Reports: Reports from UN Special Rapporteurs and other officials on the state of indigenous rights, highlighting pressing issues such as the impact of environmental laws in Peru, Colombia's ongoing challenges with indigenous rights amid armed conflict, and the call for improved water and sanitation rights in Canada.
Regional Bodies' Recommendations and Reports: Updates from regional human rights bodies, including the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights and the Inter-American Court of Human Rights. This section discusses notable resolutions, precautionary measures, and country-specific reports addressing the rights and challenges faced by indigenous communities.
Selected Publications and Reports: A curated list of recent publications and reports that delve into various aspects of indigenous rights, environmental justice, and cultural preservation. This includes scholarly articles, books, and studies that provide valuable insights into ongoing discussions and developments in the field of indigenous rights.
The newsletter aims to be a comprehensive resource for scholars, practitioners, and advocates working in the field of indigenous rights, fostering dialogue and promoting the protection and advancement of indigenous peoples' rights.
For access to the latest issue of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Interest Group Newsletter, click here: