International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, August 9

To spread awareness about the needs and rights of Indigenous peoples, August 9 is celebrated as the ” International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples” every year . This date was chosen because it marks the first meeting ( resolution 49/214) of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations, which took place in Geneva in 1982. The United Nations officially declared this day in December 1994 through a special resolution. This day is a powerful reminder of the importance of Indigenous communities, their cultures, traditions, knowledge, and their role for shaping our shared future.

This day is more than just a celebration. It’s a day to stand in solidarity, to honor ancient wisdom, and to recognize the strength and resilience of Indigenous communities everywhere. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or student, use this day as an opportunity to educate others about Indigenous peoples and their contributions.

August 9^th has been adopted in December 1994 by UN General Assembly resolution 49/214, which marks as the date of the first meeting of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations of the Sub-Commission on the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights held in Geneva in 1982.

Who Are Indigenous Peoples?

Indigenous peoples are the real inhabitants of a particular region or country. Long before the modern borders, governments, or cities came into existence, Indigenous communities were already living in harmony with their land, nature, and culture.

There are over 476 million Indigenous people living in more than 90 countries around the world today. They make up about 6% of the global population. Each group has its own unique language, customs, spiritual beliefs, and way of life. Examples include the Maasai in Kenya and Tanzania, the Adivasis in India, the Inuit in Canada, the Aboriginal peoples in Australia, and hundreds of different Indigenous tribes in the Amazon rainforest.

Despite their differences from the modern lifestyle, Indigenous people  respects the nature, making strong community ties.

Why Do We Celebrate This Day?

The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples was first established by the United Nations in 1994 and the date August 9 was chosen to mark the first meeting of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations in 1982.

This day was created to:

• Raise awareness about the rights of Indigenous peoples
• Celebrate their rich culture and contributions
• Encourage protection of their lands, traditions, and languages
• Address the challenges they face in modern society

For many years, Indigenous communities have been treated unfairly. They were pushed off their land, their languages and cultures were not respected, and they often lacked basic things like education, healthcare, and clean water. This day gives the world a chance to not only celebrate their strengths, but also listen to their voices and stand with them in their fight for justice, dignity, and equality.

Indigenous Knowledge – A Treasure for the World

One of the most valuable gifts Indigenous peoples bring to the world is their traditional knowledge—especially in areas like agriculture, medicine, and climate care.

For example:

• Indigenous farmers have cultivated crops like maize, potatoes, and quinoa for centuries—now staple foods around the world.
• Many natural medicines and healing practices used today have their roots in Indigenous wisdom.

Indigenous communities are some of the best protectors of forests, rivers, and ecosystems. They know how to live in balance with nature.

The Challenges Indigenous Peoples Face

1. Loss of Land – Many Indigenous communities are still being pushed off their land due to mining, logging, or development projects. For them, land is not just property—it’s their home, their identity, and their spiritual connection.
2. Discrimination – Indigenous people often face racism, unequal treatment, and are excluded from political decision-making processes.
3. Poverty and Limited Services – In many countries, Indigenous communities lack access to quality education, healthcare, and jobs, keeping them trapped in cycles of poverty.
4. Language and Culture Loss – Many Indigenous languages are dying out, and with them, ancient traditions and worldviews disappear.
5. Climate Change – As climate change gets worse day by day, the Indigenous communities, who live close to the nature, are suffering severely.

How Can We Celebrate and Support?

Here are some meaningful ways that anyone can help the Indigenous community, like :-

1. Support Indigenous Art and Business :Buy art, crafts, or products made by Indigenous creators. This helps keep their traditions alive and supports their economy
2. Raise Your Voice : Share information on social media, attend peaceful protests, or sign petitions that support Indigenous rights.
3. Respect Their Rights : If you live in a country with Indigenous communities, be aware of their rights and issues.

How Indigenous Communities Are Embracing Technology and AI ?

In a recent message on the occasion of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, celebrated on 9 August 2025, Ms. Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, highlighted how Indigenous Peoples around the world are increasingly using digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) in innovative ways. She noted that many Indigenous communities are using these tools to map their ancestral lands, protect natural resources, and document their knowledge systems. AI and digital platforms are also helping them preserve and promote their languages, stories, songs, and traditions in creative and modern forms. From digital storytelling and virtual museums to AI-driven language apps and satellite-based land monitoring, Indigenous Peoples are combining traditional wisdom with modern technology to protect their identity, assert their rights, and share their culture with the world. Ms. Azoulay emphasized the importance of supporting Indigenous-led digital projects and ensuring that technology respects and strengthens their cultural heritage.

Here are some important days observed in the month of August:

International Day against Nuclear Tests

World Lake Day