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We call upon the governments in Asia to review their
security-related laws and their negative impact on human rights of indigenous
and tribal peoples.
Around 30 participants from Malaysia, Indonesia,
Philippines, Nepal, Bangladesh, India and London held a roundtable meeting on
Globalisation and Security: Impact on Indigenous and Tribal Peoples in Kuching,
Sarawak. A representative of the
International Association of Peoples’ Lawyers from Belgium was also
present. Mr. Colin Nicholas, a key
participant from Kuala Lumpur, was denied entry to Kuching in violation of his
freedom of movement within his own country.
The meeting, held from 9 until 11 September 2003 was
organised by Borneo Resources Institute Malaysia (BRIMAS), Suara Rakyat
Malaysia (SUARAM) and Minority Rights Group International, London (MRGI). It aims to provide a forum for indigenous
and human rights organisations in Asia to discuss the impact of globalisation
and security on the human rights of indigenous and tribal peoples besides
assessing situations and sharing strategies for addressing such
developments.
The aftermath of 11 September provided a fresh impetus for governments to invoke repressive laws that have intensified human rights violations against indigenous and tribal peoples, and minorities. These repressive laws are efforts to create ‘peace’ through ‘war on terrorism.’ Therefore, the importance of the roundtable meeting further contributes towards the task of preserving, protecting and defending the rights of indigenous and tribal peoples against any violation. - BRIMAS