A Look at Indigenous Rights with an SIS Professor

The article highlights the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples (August 9) and features an interview with SIS professor Ruslan Garipov about Indigenous rights. Professor Garipov explains the historical significance of the observance, the global challenges Indigenous communities face (like cultural loss and oppression), and the role of international law in protecting their rights. He discusses the Land Back movement, emphasizing the deep cultural and spiritual connection Indigenous peoples have with land and the harms caused by dispossession. Professor Garipov also summarizes his research on the impact of extractive industries on Arctic Indigenous communities and stresses the importance of Free, Prior, and Informed Consent. He calls for continued action from governments, NGOs, and civil society to support Indigenous rights and to improve education about Indigenous histories and cultures. Finally, he describes his university course on Arctic sustainable development and Indigenous rights, which teaches students about Indigenous knowledge and environmental stewardship.

Here is a link to the full text of the interview