Roberto Borrero will always remember the momentous occasion in September 13, 2007, when the United Nations General Assembly voted to approve the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. After tirelessly advocating on behalf of the International Indian Treaty Council, Borrero finally witnessed the adoption of this new human rights standard. The Indigenous advocates rejoiced, embracing each other in celebration. Borrero reflected on how Indigenous peoples had historically been dehumanized as savages and animals, and now, they were being recognized as equals with this new standard in place.
The vote marked a turning point in Indigenous advocacy, as for years, activists like Borrero had turned to the United Nations when colonial governments refused to acknowledge their rights. Nearly two decades later, Indigenous peoples are faced with another critical moment as world leaders pledge significant funds to address climate change and commit to conserving 30 percent of the world’s lands and waters by 2030. Once again, Native advocates are making their way to New York and Geneva to ensure that their voices are heard and their rights are respected.
However, a concerning trend has emerged in multilateral discussions with the frequent appearance of the acronym IPLC, which stands for Indigenous peoples and local communities. While this term may seem innocuous, to Borrero and others, it raises alarm bells. The fear is that lumping Indigenous peoples together with the broader term “local communities” could undermine the progress made in recognizing Indigenous rights and territories. This fear is amplified by the possibility that states could prioritize the consent of local communities over that of Indigenous peoples, potentially eroding Indigenous voices and rights.
Last summer, three United Nations bodies spoke out against the conflation of Indigenous peoples with local communities, urging all entities to refrain from using the term “Indigenous Peoples and local communities.” While some argue that the linking is necessary for achieving conservation goals, Indigenous advocates like Borrero and Andrea Carmen believe that keeping the terms separate is crucial. Indigenous peoples have distinct rights and standing under international law, and it is essential to preserve these distinctions.
The concerns raised by Indigenous advocates highlight the importance of recognizing and respecting the unique rights of Indigenous peoples. As the world grapples with issues of conservation and climate change, it is crucial to ensure that Indigenous voices are heard and their rights are upheld. The fight for Indigenous rights continues, and advocates like Borrero and Carmen remain steadfast in their commitment to preserving the rights and territories of Indigenous peoples.
