Every year on October 10, the world celebrates the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples. This day recognizes the contributions and struggles of indigenous peoples around the world, and aims to promote their rights and preserve their cultures.
The United Nations established this day in 1994 to raise awareness and honor the world’s indigenous populations. The theme for 2021 is ‘Leaving No One Behind: Indigenous peoples and the Call for a New Social Contract’, highlighting the need for inclusivity and equal rights for indigenous populations.
There are over 370 million indigenous peoples around the world, living in over 70 countries. These communities possess and practice unique cultures and traditions, often rooted in their deep connection to the environment. However, they face various challenges such as discrimination, land and resource rights violations, poverty, and health disparities.
The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples serves as a platform to bring these issues to the forefront and call for action and change. It also celebrates the resilience, strength, and diversity of indigenous communities, acknowledging their valuable contributions to the world.
Indigenous peoples are the descendants of the original inhabitants of a region or country. They have maintained a close relationship with their land, territories, and resources for generations. The United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues plays a crucial role in advocating for the rights of indigenous peoples. The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is also an opportunity to recognize and support indigenous-led initiatives and businesses. Indigenous peoples often face higher levels of poverty, lack of access to education and healthcare, and social exclusion. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exposed and exacerbated these inequalities. Indigenous peoples have unique knowledge and practices related to sustainable use of natural resources, which can contribute to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The 2021 theme highlights the need for a more inclusive and equitable social contract that recognizes and respects the rights of indigenous peoples. Indigenous youth play a key role in advocating for their communities and promoting indigenous rights. Supporting indigenous peoples is crucial for preserving the world’s biodiversity and ecosystems. 
