09/08/2023
The United Nations General Assembly declared December 9th as International Indigenous People's Day on December 23, 1994 in order to acknowledge their contributions and achievements in a country's development. This year’s(2023) theme of the day is "Indigenous youth as agents of change for self-determination”.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres states in his message for the Day, “Young Indigenous Peoples are helping to fight back all the challenges. They are leaders in the global climate action movement. They advocate justice and equality, celebrate their cultures, advance human rights and raise awareness of Indigenous history and issues around the world.”
This day is also observed by many in Bangladesh to celebrate their distinct ethnic identity and rights. According to research by the 'Indigenous Peoples' Development Services' following the global COVID-19 pandemic, the income of 92% of indigenous people has decreased. The number of people living under the new poverty line has increased by 500,000. The national poverty rate now stands at 21%. The extreme poverty rate is below 11%. However, among the smaller indigenous communities, the poverty rate is 65% in the hilly Chattogram region and 80% in the plains. Despite the increase in the country's national average income, their income has not increased.
To overcome this situation, each of us must strive to progress from our current position, utilizing our unique potentials and capabilities. Particularly, we, the young generation, should never let go of the small sapling of dream within us, and nurture it regularly with the water of education, knowledge, and skills. As Mr. Guterres said, “It is vital that young Indigenous Peoples, both women and men, are involved in decision-making. The choices made today will determine the world of tomorrow.”
