Indigenous Perspectives in International Relations

What is the main focus of International Relations (IR)?

IR views the international system as an anarchic environment where self-interested and rational states compete for power.

How does Foreign Policy relate to International Relations?

Foreign Policy is a sub-discipline of IR that studies the national interests of states in relation to others, such as trade, defense, and security.

What are the three main national interests identified in IR?

1. State survival from attacks by other states, 2. Economic survival requiring trade, 3. Cooperation and agreements for a rules-based international order.

Why are Indigenous peoples often overlooked in discussions of International Relations?

IR traditionally focuses on state-centric perspectives and has been resistant to examining issues 'inside' the state, despite Indigenous peoples transcending state boundaries.

What is enshrined in the UN Charter regarding self-determination?

The right of self-determination of peoples is recognized, emphasizing equal rights and international cooperation.

What significant event in the 1960s impacted the number of states in the world?

The explosion of new states as the UNGA and UNSC recognized the end of empires.

What does UNGA resolution 1514 address?

It declares the granting of independence to colonial countries and peoples, marking the end of colonization.

What is the difference between colonialism and settler colonialism?

Colonialism has an international element and ends when invaders leave, while settler colonialism persists as settlers do not leave.

What plea did Chief Deskaheh make regarding Indigenous rights?

He sought recognition for the Haudenosaunee at the League of Nations and questioned the commitment to equal protection under international law.

How do states view Indigenous peoples in relation to sovereignty?

States often view Indigenous peoples as threats to their sovereignty, marginalizing their claims and rights.

What does the term 'sovereignty' mean in the context of Indigenous peoples?

Indigenous sovereignty refers to their rights over land and nature, which often clash with the sovereignty recognized by IR.

What is the significance of the term 'Race and Amnesia' in IR?

It refers to the discipline's neglect of the historical violence and genocide against Indigenous peoples and minorities.

What does IR theorize about state sovereignty?

IR theorizes that state sovereignty is the most important concept, often overlooking historical injustices.

What was the Concert of Europe, and how does it relate to peace?

The Concert of Europe (1815-1914) is often viewed as a period of peace, but it excluded many conflicts involving states against their own peoples.

How did Hugo Grotius contribute to International Law?

He wrote the first International Law of the Sea, addressing issues like piracy and exploitation of Asian nations.

What does UNDRIP stand for and its purpose?

UNDRIP is the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, recognizing their rights as nations distinct from states.

What rights do Indigenous peoples have under Article 1 of UNDRIP?

They have the right to enjoy all human rights and fundamental freedoms as recognized in international human rights law.

What does Article 30 of UNDRIP state regarding military activities?

Military activities in Indigenous territories require justification by public interest or consent from the Indigenous peoples.

What is the role of states in consulting Indigenous peoples according to UNDRIP?

States must undertake effective consultations with Indigenous peoples before using their lands for military activities.

What does the term 'A' in TRAC signify in the context of sovereignty?

It represents the concept of sovereignty, emphasizing the importance of recognizing Indigenous sovereignty.

What does the term 'self-determination' imply in the context of Indigenous peoples?

It implies the right of Indigenous peoples to govern themselves and make decisions about their own lives.

What challenges do Indigenous peoples face in asserting their sovereignty?

They face marginalization and the dominance of state sovereignty, which often disregards their rights and claims.

What historical context does IR often overlook according to Sankaran Krishna?

IR overlooks the genocide of Indigenous peoples and the theft of land, focusing instead on state sovereignty.

What is the significance of the phrase 'billiard balls' in IR?

It refers to the simplistic view of states as equal entities, ignoring the complex histories and injustices faced by marginalized groups.

How does IR's focus on state sovereignty affect its analysis of historical events?

IR tends to prioritize conflicts and agreements that support the notion of state sovereignty, neglecting historical violence.

What does the term 'settler colonialism' imply about the relationship between Indigenous peoples and states?

It implies a persistent relationship where settlers maintain control over Indigenous lands and rights, often leading to ongoing conflicts.

What is the impact of the UN's recognition of Indigenous peoples as nations?

It acknowledges their rights and identities, distinguishing them from the concept of statehood recognized in IR.