Every year, the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples is observed on August 9 around the world. This day was established by the United Nations to promote and protect the rights of the world’s indigenous population. It also recognises the achievements and contributions of the indigenous people to improve world issues such as environmental protection. The day was first pronounced by the United Nations General Assembly in December 1994, marking the day of the first meeting of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations of the Sub-Commission on the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights in 1982.

There are an estimated 476 million Indigenous Peoples in the world living across 90 countries. According to UN data, indigenous peoples make up less than 6 percent of the global population, but they represent at least 15 percent of the extremely poor. In order to raise awareness of the needs of these population groups, the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is observed. Learn more about the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 2024 theme, history and significance of the global event.

International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples 2024 Date

International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples 2024 is celebrated on Friday, August 9.

International Day of the World’s Indigenous People 2024 Theme

The theme for International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 2024 is "Protecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact."

International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples History

By resolution 49/214 of December 23, 1994, the United Nations General Assembly  (UNGA) decided that the International Day of the World's Indigenous People shall be observed on August 9 every year during the International Decade of the World's Indigenous People. The date marks the day of the first meeting, in 1982, of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations of the Sub-Commission on the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights.

The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution in December 1992 to make 1993 the International Year of the World's Indigenous Peoples. The day was first pronounced by the UN General Assembly in December 1994.

International Day of the World’s Indigenous People Significance

International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples is an important global event that highlights specific aspects or challenges faced by indigenous communities. The day is celebrated through various events, including educational activities, cultural performances, and discussions on the challenges indigenous people face worldwide. People from different nations are encouraged to participate in observing the day to spread the UN's message on indigenous peoples.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 09, 2024 09:35 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).