International World Indigenous People Day 2022: Check out its history, significance

August 9 is marked as the International Day of the World’s Indigenous People. It is an international event, which celebrates indigenous people across the globe and their contributions. Moreover, the day commemorates the knowledge passed down by these indigenous people over the centuries. It also looks to safeguard the rights of these communities.

Every year, there is a particular theme for celebrating the day. This year’s theme is centered around women. It is ‘The Role of Indigenous Women in the Preservation and Transmission of Traditional Knowledge’. The theme celebrates the role of indigenous women, who are vital in preserving ancestral knowledge that can be helpful to society at large.

Indigenous women have been participating in protecting their territories and natural resources. They also fight for the rights of indigenous tribes.


Despite their contribution, indigenous women don’t find the representation that they deserve. They are sometimes subjected to violence and discrimination. These common issues will be discussed this year at the UN’s DESA meeting, which will occur on this day virtually, given the pandemic situation. The UN member states, indigenous people, civil society representatives, other UN entities and even the general public will participate in the meeting.

History of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous People
The day was first recognised on December 23, 1994, when UNGA passed a resolution identifying August 9 as the International Day of the World’s Indigenous People. On August 9, 1982, the first meeting of the UN Working Group on Indigenous People was held.

1993 was marked as the International Year of the World’s Indigenous People. On December 23 1993, the UNGA declared the International Decade of the World’s Indigenous People starting from December 10 1993.

Significance of the day
Indigenous people are essential for society as they show us our roots. Recognising the knowledge gathered by indigenous people is culturally and scientifically important. Old cultures have, with their immense knowledge, mastered the art of surviving and discovered helpful remedies for illnesses. Such remedies have helped modern medicine tremendously. Moreover, it is essential to preserve the indigenous people's tradition, culture, knowledge, language, philosophies and spiritual practices.