IA3016:03
Indigenous Law and Politics 3
External, Cairns
HECS Band 1
Semester 2 Cairns; Semester 2 external delivery.
Staff: Ms L Thaker.
This subject includes introductions and discussions on international developments, the United Nations Working Group on Indigenous Populations, the Draft Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, United Nations (Human Rights) structures and processes, international law relevant to Indigenous peoples (including the Convention on Biological Diversity), international comparative issues and studies including an introduction to Canada’s Royal Commission on Aboriginal peoples.
This subject will provide students with international perspectives to their studies of Indigenous issues. Students will further develop the rights-based approach to examine how Indigenous peoples have worked together to form a strong international lobby group to promote Indigenous rights. The work of the United Nations Working Group on Indigenous Populations will be highlighted.
Learning Objectives:
- gain an understanding of the historical, political, social and cultural frameworks of Indigenous affairs (in the Australian context and the International context);
- develop a rights based terms of reference in critically analysing government policies towards Indigenous peoples;
- gain an understanding of the unique relationship between Indigenous peoples and the United Nations;
- gain a knowledge of human rights and social justice and the role of advocacy in promoting Indigenous well-being, on an international level;
- develop an understanding of the unique nature of Indigenous (collective) Rights and aspirations.
Assessment by participation (20%); journal (30%); 2,000 word essay (30%); oral presentation (20%).