| April 22, 2018 The struggle of Indigenous peoples abroad Amsterdam, The Netherlands. |
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On Earth Day, an event was organized in Studio/K, a multi-purpose student-operated venue in Amsterdam, to highlight the issues faced by indigenous communities today with regard to the recognition of their human rights, cultural heritage and special connection to the environment in which they live. Four organizations, representing indigenous populations from various countries, Mapuche Foundation Folil (Chile), Stichting Kaikoesie (Suriname), MABIKAs Foundation NL (The Philippines) and Freewestpapuacampaign NL (West Papua), were invited to share their perspectives on the difficulties and struggles their communities face and their visions on how progress could be achieved and solutions could be found. A recurring theme throughout the event, especially relevant on Earth Day, was the exploitation of natural resources by multinational corporations in areas where indigenous populations live and the and the related consequences, such as internal displacement, environmental contamination as well as grave threats to their health and safety. The audience of roughly 50 people had the opportunity to interact with the presenters in moderated Q&A sessions, where topics such as collaboration between civil society and legislators was discussed, as well as the importance for indigenous movements to make their stories known to a wider public. A final takeaway from this event is that among indigenous organizations there is much knowledge and experience to share, and that looking to the future, the possibility of positive partnerships with all parties involved should be explored.
Tags: #Mapuche #chile #cordilleras #philippines #indigenous #nativeamerican #indonesia #freewestpapua #Kalinya |
