27 November 2024, Cairo. – The Indigenous Roundtable at WUF 12 brought together leaders, advocates, and visionaries from Indigenous communities worldwide to address the challenges and opportunities their communities face in the context of urbanization. Discussions spanned critical issues like land rights, cultural preservation, environmental stewardship, and violence against Indigenous women. The dialogue emphasized the need for inclusive policies that respect Indigenous knowledge, promote sustainability, and foster equitable urban development.
Land Rights and Urbanization: Bridging the Gap
One of the most pressing issues discussed was the loss of land due to urban expansion and inadequate legislation. Lenin Zambrano, a representative of Ecuador’s Indigenous nationalities, underscored the significance of securing land for Indigenous communities. He stated:
“In our territories, the lack of legislation for the land is very important. The municipalities fail to understand our realities, leaving us to fight for what is inherently ours.”
Zambrano highlighted the systemic challenges Indigenous communities face, from restrictive land policies to the exclusion of Indigenous professionals in decision-making processes. Without proper representation and legislation, urbanization risks marginalizing Indigenous communities further.
To address these challenges, participants recommended legal recognition of Indigenous land rights, localized urban planning, and inclusive policymaking that involves Indigenous voices at every stage.
Preserving Language and Culture: A Call to Action
Urban migration often results in the erosion of Indigenous languages and cultural practices. Diana Caiza, Mayor of Ambato, Ecuador, spoke passionately about the need to preserve Indigenous identity amidst modernization:
“Language preservation is critical. Through workshops and public policies, we are ensuring that our children learn about our traditions and that Quichua remains a living language in our city.”
Caiza emphasized the importance of fostering cultural pride and understanding among younger generations through educational initiatives and public campaigns. Her pioneering project to deliver 50,000 property titles further underscores her commitment to empowering rural and Indigenous communities.
Localization plays a vital role in preserving cultural heritage. Community-based programs tailored to specific Indigenous groups allow urban spaces to reflect the diversity and richness of their cultures.
Indigenous Knowledge in Urban Planning: A Sustainable Path Forward
Climate change and environmental degradation were central to the discussion, with participants highlighting the untapped potential of Indigenous knowledge in creating sustainable urban environments. Nancy Charlotte Porsanger Anti, State Secretary of Norway, emphasized:
“Indigenous knowledge is not only about protecting our rights but also a valuable resource for better planning. It reminds us of our history and offers insights to address modern challenges.”
Anti shared Norway’s success in integrating Sami perspectives into national policies through codified consultations. She stressed that climate change disproportionately affects Indigenous communities, making their involvement in urban planning essential for equitable and sustainable development.
The inclusion of Indigenous ecological practices, such as traditional water conservation techniques, can help cities address environmental challenges while preserving cultural integrity.
The Crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW): An Urgent Call
The session also shed light on the alarming rates of violence against Indigenous women. Emma Stevens, an Indigenous youth leader from Canada, delivered a powerful message:
“Nearly 80% of cases involving missing Indigenous women are never investigated seriously. As an Indigenous woman, I don’t feel safe walking in my own community.”
Stevens highlighted the systemic neglect Indigenous women face and the stereotypes that perpetuate their vulnerability. Through her music and advocacy, she raises awareness of the MMIW crisis, empowering Indigenous youth to reclaim their voices and assert their rights.
To combat this crisis, participants called for culturally sensitive support systems, increased representation within law enforcement, and community-led advocacy initiatives.
Youth Leadership and Empowerment: The Key to Sustainable Change
Youth were at the forefront of the roundtable, with speakers emphasizing their role as agents of change. Darisuren Azbayar, a youth leader from Mongolia, addressed the challenges of cultural preservation amid urbanization:
“Urban environments often force nomadic communities to assimilate, erasing their traditions. Yet, youth groups are working to reconnect with their roots, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.”
Azbayar advocated for innovative solutions like adapting traditional yurts with sustainable technologies, allowing Indigenous communities to thrive in urban spaces while preserving their cultural identity.
Empowering Indigenous youth through education, employment programs, and leadership opportunities ensures the continuity of Indigenous traditions and values in urban contexts.
A Unified Vision for Inclusive Urbanization
The roundtable concluded with a shared vision of inclusive urbanization that respects and integrates Indigenous knowledge, culture, and rights. Participants called for:
- Legal and Policy Reforms: Recognizing Indigenous land rights and ensuring representation in governance.
- Cultural Preservation Initiatives: Supporting language programs, cultural centers, and storytelling traditions.
- Sustainable Urban Development: Incorporating Indigenous ecological knowledge into urban planning.
- Protection and Advocacy for Indigenous Women: Addressing systemic neglect and providing culturally appropriate support services.
By fostering intergenerational and cross-sector collaboration, the global community can build cities that celebrate diversity, uphold justice, and prioritize sustainability.
