United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) is regarded as an international instrument adopted by the UN on September 13, 2007 as a way to defend the rights of the Indigenous Peoples. UNDRIP consecrates the rights that "constitute the minimum standards for the survival, dignity, and well-being of the indigenous peoples of the world", and also aims to protect the collective rights of the Indigenous that may not be covered by other charters on human rights.
The result of nearly 25 years of discussion and consultation between Indigenous organizations and member nations of the United Nations, UNDRIP is heralded as a powerful tool grounded in the discourse of human rights, to which initially144 countries expressed support, 4 countries (including Canada) refused support, and 11 countries abstained from taking a position. Since its adoption, the 4 countries that refused support have now reversed their initial position and now support the UNDRIP.
UNDRIP upholds the right to self-determination, including the right “to freely determine their political status and freely pursue their economic, social and cultural development.” for the Indigenous people. Various articles within the UNDRIP champion for various causes, such as the right to self determination & governance, repatriation, and reconciliation. For example, Article 4 declares Indigenous peoples’ right “to autonomy or self-government in matters relating to their internal and local affairs,” while Article 5 protects their right “to maintain and strengthen their distinct political, legal, economic, social and cultural institutions.”
Read more about UNDRIP here.
