Indigenous youth as agents of change

The UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) affirms that Indigenous Peoples, including children and youth, have the right to self-determination, and have an equal right to govern themselves, equal to all other peoples. Indigenous youth are playing an increasingly active role in exercising their right to self-determination, working as agents of change at the forefront of some of the most pressing crises facing humanity, as their future depends on the decisions that are made today.

As the world continues to experience profound change and confront interconnected crises, Indigenous youth are often forced to walk in two worlds, navigating the mainstream society in which they live, while maintaining a connection to their Indigenous Peoples’ heritage. Yet, at the same time, they are harnessing cutting-edge technologies and developing new skills to offer solutions and contribute to a more sustainable, peaceful future for our people and planet. For example, they are becoming key players in the global climate action movement and highlighting the damages caused by the ‘green transition’ to Indigenous Peoples’ lands and territories, as well as reporting incidents of threats to freedom of expression. They are mobilizing together to highlight injustices within their communities and to shift the narrative around Indigenous Peoples. And they are sharing their Indigenous cultures and identities with pride, by connecting with and learning from their Indigenous elders.

The theme for this year’s International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, on 9 August 2023, is ‘Indigenous Youth as Agents of Change for Self-determination’. UN DESA is hosting a virtual commemoration, which will hear from a number of Indigenous youth who are actively taking the lead in their field and making their voices heard at the national and international level.

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Photo Credit: UN DESA