Assessing Reparation Rights of Indigenous Peoples: Challenges within International Law

  • Md. Tuhin Mia Department of Law, World University of Bangladesh, Avenue 6 Lake Drive Uttara Sector 17H, Dhaka 1230, Bangladesh
  • Monirul Islam Faculty of Law, University of Malaya, 50603 Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
  • Maruf Billah Faculty of Law, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Jalan Sarjana ½, 40450 Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
  • Fuad Mahbub Faculty of Law, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Jalan Sarjana ½, 40450 Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
Keywords: Indigenous Peoples, International Law, Injustice, Redress, Strategies and Practices

Abstract

This paper examines the challenges facing indigenous peoples in accessing reparations under international law. Despite the prevalence of discrimination and inequality among indigenous peoples, international law has been unable to provide them with adequate compensation. Drawing on secondary data sources such as journal articles, books, newspapers, websites, and case law, the paper explores the reasons why international law has failed to provide reparations to indigenous peoples. The paper discusses the legal avenues available to indigenous peoples seeking compensation, including litigation through their national state, reparation tribunals, constitutional amendment, and people and other organizations. The study proposes recommendations for ensuring that indigenous peoples' rights to reparations are recognized and respected under international law. Overall, this paper underscores the responsibility of international law in addressing the historical neglect of indigenous peoples and emphasizes the need for collective action and global cooperation to ensure the fulfilment of these rights.

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Published
2026-05-26
Section
Articles