GENEVA — The United Nations Human Rights Council held its annual half-day discussion on the rights of Indigenous Peoples on 23 September during its 63rd regular session.
The panel focused on the World Heritage Convention and the right of Indigenous communities to participate in decisions concerning their lands, cultures, sacred places and traditional knowledge.
Speakers stressed that conservation policies should not displace Indigenous communities or restrict customary practices without their free, prior and informed consent.
The discussion highlighted the need for Indigenous representatives to be involved from the earliest stages of World Heritage nomination, management and monitoring processes.
The European Union told the Council that protecting heritage must go together with respecting Indigenous Peoples’ rights and ensuring their effective engagement.
Background work by Indigenous experts has similarly called for stronger recognition of Indigenous heritage values and direct participation in every World Heritage process affecting their communities.
The HRC63 panel added political momentum to demands that international conservation systems move from consultation alone toward shared decision-making and accountable partnerships.
References
- European Union — HRC63 statement on Indigenous Peoples and World Heritage
- UN Web TV — 23rd meeting of the 63rd Human Rights Council session
- OHCHR — Expert workshop outcome on Indigenous heritage values
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre — World Heritage and Indigenous Peoples
Featured photo: Andrew James/Unsplash.