A Report on the Human Rights Situation of Indigenous Peoples in Asia (2007)

Abstract

This report presents a general overview of the situation of the rights of indigenous peoples in Asia, based on the information gathered by the Special Rapporteur from various sources during recent activities in the region, including activities organized by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Cambodia and Nepal, a follow-up visit to the Philippines, and the First Asian Regional Consultation with the Special Rapporteur. Indigenous peoples in Asian countries face similar patterns of discrimination and human rights violations as in other parts of the world. Drawing from specific examples in various Asian countries, the report focuses on issues of particular concern in the region, including the steady loss of indigenous lands, territories and natural resources; situations of internal conflict, violence and repression faced by these peoples, the implementation of peace accords and autonomy regimes, and the special abuses faced by indigenous women.

During my mandate as Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples of the United Nations, I was requested by the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues to prepare a report on the situation of indigenous peoples in Asia. Based on specialized documentation, direct information provided by indigenous people, academics and governments, and on data given to me during my visits to various countries in the region, I presented this report to the United Nations in 2007. (This text circulated as UN document: E/C.19/2007/CRP.11 (15 May 2007), Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues Sixth Session, New York, 14–25 May, 2007, Item 6 of the provisional agenda. Half day discussion on Asia. General considerations on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous peoples in Asia presented by the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people, Mr. Rodolfo Stavenhagen. This text is in the public domain).