International Day of The World’s Indigenous People 2023: Date, History, Facts about Indigenous People

On August 9, the International Day of the World’s Indigenous People honours the indigenous communities of the world. According to the most recent data, there are between 370 and 500 million indigenous people residing in 90 countries. These communities are distinguished by their distinct languages, customs, cultures, and administrative structures. For many indigenous groups, the systems that their progenitors have adhered to for centuries have withstood the test of time and continue to yield positive results. Numerous indigenous peoples’ unique affinity and connection with nature have also contributed to the protection of the global ecosystem. On the other hand, several indigenous communities confront difficulties due to the covert and overt efforts of the central government to control their lives. This has resulted in violations of the rights of indigenous people, whose lives would otherwise be tranquil and harmonious.

The background of International Day of The World’s Indigenous People

In August 1995, the first official International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples was observed. The day was established when the United Nations General Assembly enacted resolution 49/214 on December 23, 1994. The date of August 9 was chosen to commemorate the first meeting of the United Nations Working Group on Indigenous Populations of the Sub-Commission for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights. Every year, governments and organisations celebrate the day by conducting education forums and conferences to discuss the social issues facing indigenous groups worldwide. In addition, individuals are informed of any ongoing and/or prospective activities and projects that are being conducted to assist the target communities. The theme for 2021 was “Leaving no one behind: Indigenous peoples and the call for a new social contract” (Leaving no one behind: Indigenous peoples and the call for a new social contract).

The theme of the social contract is a demand for accountability in the interaction of the general population with indigenous communities and their resources. Many indigenous groups have found themselves in a disadvantageous position over the years as a result of urban development projects that have devastated and devalued their lands and territories. The central administrations and builders involved in these projects never sought permission from or even communicated with the indigenous communities prior to implementing these measures. The United Nations and the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) have made efforts towards constitutional/legislative reforms for dominant indigenous groups. However, efforts must be concentrated on uniting everyone in the cause, leaving no one behind. Numerous individuals, organisations, and enterprises have established scholarships in an effort to increase access to education for individuals from diverse backgrounds.

World Indigenous People’s Day Quotes, Messages, History and More!

5 Interesting Indigenous People Facts

Approximately 80% of the world’s biodiversity is found in areas inhabited by indigenous peoples.

Approximately 4,000 languages are attributed to the 5,000 indigenous communities in the globe.

Indigenous communities make up 15% of the world’s impoverished populace despite comprising only 5% of the global population.

Due to a lack of awareness, indigenous communities have shorter life spans because they perish of preventable diseases such as malaria and HIV.

Studies have shown that where indigenous people reside, flora, fauna, and biodiversity prosper and flourish.

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE WORLD’S INDIGENOUS PEOPLE DATES

Year	Date	Day
2023	August 9	Wednesday
2024	August 9	Friday
2025	August 9	Saturday
2026	August 9	Sunday
2027	August 9	Monday