International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples Highlights the Need for Inclusive Agrifood Policies in Southeast Asia

very 9 August, the world observes the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, recognizing the
invaluable contributions of Indigenous Peoples in safeguarding biodiversity, preserving traditional knowledge, and promoting sustainable natural resource management. Across Southeast Asia, Indigenous communities play a vital role in protecting forests, agricultural landscapes, and local food systems, underscoring the need to recognize their rights and strengthen their participation in sustainable development.

The observance also highlights the importance of strengthening policies that protect Indigenous Peoples' rights and ensure their meaningful participation in agricultural and rural development. At the regional level, the ASEAN Human Rights Declaration (2012) affirms the rights of vulnerable and marginalized groups to equitable development, while the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Blueprint 2025 promotes social inclusion, environmental sustainability, and community resilience. Complementing these regional commitments, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) calls for the recognition of Indigenous Peoples' rights to their lands, resources, traditional knowledge, and participation in decisions that affect their communities. Together, these policy frameworks provide an important foundation for developing more inclusive, climate-resilient, and people-centered agrifood systems across Southeast Asia.