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International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is observed every year on 9 August. This campaign aims to raise awareness and protect the rights of indigenous populations throughout the world. As part of this event, Indigenous people are also recognized for their achievements and contributions to improving world issues such as environmental preservation. In December 1994, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed it, commemorating the first meeting of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations under the Sub-Commission on Promotion and Protection of Human Rights in 1982.
History of International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples
The United Nations General Assembly decided in its resolution 49/214 on 23 December 1994 to observe the International Day of the World’s Indigenous People on 9 August every year. In 1982, the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations held its first meeting on this date. Throughout the world, people are encouraged to spread the UN’s message concerning the protection and promotion of indigenous rights on this day.
The UN headquarters in New York will host a variety of events, including messages from high-level UN officials, governments, indigenous peoples, and other key leaders; performances by indigenous artists; and panel discussions on emerging issues. Throughout the world, other events are also held in celebration of this day.
The Year 1993 was proclaimed the International Year of the World’s Indigenous People by the UN General Assembly, and the same year the Assembly proclaimed the International Decade of the World’s Indigenous People. The goal of the First International Decade was to strengthen international cooperation in solving problems faced by indigenous people in such areas as human rights, the environment, development, education, and health. The Second International Decade of the World’s Indigenous People ran from 2005 to 2015.
The theme of International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 2024
International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is observed every year on 9 August. The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples in 2024 will be observed under the theme “Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact”. This theme emphasizes the importance of safeguarding the rights and well-being of Indigenous communities that choose to remain isolated or have limited contact with the outside world.
The theme of International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples- 2022 is “The Role of Indigenous Women in the Preservation and Transmission of Traditional Knowledge”. The theme for previous years is as follows:
- 2021: “Leaving no one behind: Indigenous peoples and the call for a new social contract”
- 2020: “COVID-19 and Indigenous peoples’ resilience”
- 2019: “Indigenous Languages”
- 2018: “Indigenous Peoples’ Migration and Movement”
- 2017: “Tenth Anniversary of the Adoption of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples”
- 2016: “Indigenous Peoples’ Right to Education”
- 2015: “Post-2015 Agenda: Ensuring Indigenous peoples’ health and well-being”
- 2014: “Bridging the gap: implementing the rights of Indigenous peoples”
- 2013: Indigenous Peoples building alliances: Honouring treaties, agreements, and other constructive arrangements
- 2012: Indigenous Media, Empowering Indigenous Voices
- 2011: Indigenous designs: celebrating stories and cultures, crafting their own future
- 2010: Celebrating Indigenous Film Making
- 2009: Indigenous Peoples and HIV/AIDS
- 2008: Reconciliation between States and Indigenous peoples
- 2007: Urgent need to preserve Indigenous languages
- 2006: Indigenous Peoples: human rights, dignity and development with identity
- 2005: The Cause of Indigenous Peoples is Ours
Significance of International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples
The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, observed on August 9th each year, is a significant occasion dedicated to honoring the rich cultures, traditions, and contributions of indigenous communities worldwide. It serves as a reminder of the need to protect the rights of these populations, who often face challenges such as marginalization and poverty. The day also celebrates the achievements of indigenous people in areas like environmental stewardship, while advocating for their involvement in global discussions on issues such as climate change and sustainable development. This observance is a call to recognize the importance of preserving indigenous cultures and ensuring their voices are heard in the pursuit of a more equitable and diverse world.
Quick Facts World’s Indigenous Peoples
Here are quick facts about the World’s Indigenous Peoples:
- Globally, 47% of all indigenous peoples in employment have no education, compared to 17% of their non-indigenous counterparts. This gap is even wider for women.
- There are an estimated 476 million indigenous peoples in the world living across 90 countries. They make up less than 5 percent of the world’s population but account for 15 percent of the poorest.
- More than 86% of Indigenous peoples globally work in the informal economy, compared to 66% of their non-indigenous counterparts
- Indigenous peoples are nearly three times as likely to be living in extreme poverty compared to their non-indigenous counterparts.
How to Observe International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples
To observe this day, one can start by educating oneself about the history and current issues facing indigenous groups. Engaging with and listening to indigenous voices through various media, such as radio programs or podcasts, can provide valuable insights into their perspectives and challenges. Participating in events, whether at the United Nations headquarters or locally organized gatherings, can also be a way to show support and solidarity. Additionally, learning an indigenous language can be a profound way to connect with and respect the culture, especially as the United Nations has declared the years 2022 to 2032 the decade for indigenous languages. Standing by indigenous groups by advocating for their rights and supporting their causes is another meaningful way to observe this day and contribute to a more inclusive and equitable world.
International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples Observation Dates
International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is observed every year on 9 August.
| Year | Date | Day |
| 2019 | 9-Aug-19 | Friday |
| 2020 | 9-Aug-20 | Sunday |
| 2021 | 9-Aug-21 | Monday |
| 2022 | 9-Aug-22 | Tuesday |
| 2023 | 9-Aug-23 | Wednesday |
| 2024 | 9-Aug-24 | Friday |
| 2025 | 9-Aug-25 | Saturday |
| 2026 | 9-Aug-26 | Sunday |
| 2027 | 9-Aug-27 | Monday |
| 2028 | 9-Aug-28 | Wednesday |
| 2029 | 9-Aug-29 | Thursday |
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