In a profound webinar hosted online, the Australian National University Law School, alongside the American Society of International Law and LAWASIA, is shining a spotlight on Indigenous rights in South Asia, particularly in Bangladesh, India, and Nepal. The event, the second in a series exploring Indigenous struggles throughout the Asia-Pacific, aims to familiarise audiences with the nuanced challenges faced by Indigenous communities in these diverse nations. Scholars will share their personal narratives and insights into the current status and future challenges of Indigenous peoples in the region.
The speakers include notable figures like Jonathan Liljeblad, an Associate Professor at ANU Law School and Co-Chair of various Indigenous rights groups. His work delves into the promotion of international norms in the Global South, focusing significantly on human rights and environmental issues. As a member of the Indigenous Pao’Oh peoples, he brings personal conviction to the academic discourse.
From the Northeast of India, Guangchunliu Gangmei represents Naga Indigenous women, advocating for self-determination and land rights. She leads human rights campaigns within the Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact and has previously contributed to advocating for Dalit rights. With academic prowess in social work, her commitment to gender justice echoes through her various initiatives and research efforts.
Muktasree Chakma Sathi, an award-winning journalist and activist from the Chakma community in Bangladesh, founded Supporting People and Rebuilding Communities (SPaRC). Her organisation focuses on dismantling discrimination against Indigenous individuals and women. With over two decades of experience, her contributions to human rights dialogues have earned her numerous accolades and recognitions.
Finally, Indira Kumari Shreesh, a legal advocate from the Magar community in Nepal, has earned a Master’s in Human Rights and Gender Justice. With a wealth of experience, she champions the rights of Indigenous women and addresses various issues linked to environmental justice. Her role as Chair of INWOLAG and her contributions to legal awareness highlight a steadfast commitment to advocating for Indigenous rights on national and international platforms.
An online webinar, co-hosted by ANU, ASIL, and LAWASIA, focuses on Indigenous rights struggles in Bangladesh, India, and Nepal. The event features Indigenous legal scholars sharing personal insights into the current conditions and challenges faced by Indigenous peoples in South Asia. The speakers include Jonathan Liljeblad, Guangchunliu Gangmei, Muktasree Chakma Sathi, and Indira Kumari Shreesh, each with a profound dedication to advocating for rights and justice in their communities.
The webinar promises to provide deep insights into the Indigenous rights landscape in South Asia, with emphasis on the diverse experiences from Bangladesh, India, and Nepal. Each speaker brings their unique perspectives, highlighting ongoing struggles while exploring future challenges. As these Indigenous voices unite, the hope remains for increased awareness and advocacy in the realm of human rights, environmental justice, and gender equality.
Original Source: law.anu.edu.au
