Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has reiterated the essential function of the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) in upholding the cultural, historical, and collective rights of the iTaukei people. In a recent dialogue featured in The Fiji Times’ column, “A Conversation with the Prime Minister,” he highlighted the GCC’s significance within Fiji’s shifting social and political context.
Mr. Rabuka emphasized the need to protect the welfare and rights of the iTaukei, particularly concerning land and sea resources. He stated, “The GCC is the council that keeps everything relevant and protected in the interest of landowners and land users, especially the collective rights.” This statement underlines the council’s vital role amidst challenges faced by the indigenous population in preserving their cultural and economic independence.
The Prime Minister pointed out that the resurgence of global recognition of the importance of indigenous cultures highlights the vulnerabilities of such communities. He referenced international frameworks like the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Convention 169 as critical points of reference for safeguarding these rights. Notably, UNDRIP empowers indigenous peoples to maintain their cultures and manage their resources, while ILO Convention 169 advocates for their equitable treatment in sectors like employment, education, and healthcare.
In a world increasingly aware of the threats to indigenous identities, Mr. Rabuka’s commitment to the GCC serves as a beacon of hope for the iTaukei people and other indigenous communities worldwide. This reinforces a broader global movement aimed at cherishing and preserving cultural heritage, ensuring that future generations can thrive and retain their identities amidst modernization and global challenges.
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