Traditional Hui: Indigenous Laws and Traditional Knowledge – Pathways to Climate Justice
THE HAGUE - On the fourth day of the first week of the oral hearings, The Hague Humanity Hub became the site of a pivotal dialogue on climate justice. During the Traditional Hui: Indigenous Laws and Traditional Knowledge – Pathways to Climate Justice. This event was co-organized by the Government of Vanuatu, The Pacific Community (SPC), WY4CJ and PISFCC.
The aim and purpose of this gathering was to bring together Indigenous leaders, legal experts, and advocates to discuss the transformative role that Indigenous knowledge and laws can play in addressing the effects of the climate crisis.
The Significance of Indigenous Knowledge
Indigenous peoples, as stewards of traditional knowledge and most of the world's biodiversity, hold profound insights into environmental sustainability. Their laws and practices, deeply rooted in reciprocity and harmony with nature, offer nature-based solutions essential for combating climate change. Our event underscored how these practices can complement international legal frameworks, particularly through the lens of the ICJ-AO.
The event commenced with a traditional indigenous opening by Ivy Smith (Aunty Ivy). This is a custom and process that is traditionally performed at the beginning of events and or gatherings by elders of the community. Aunty Ivy also explained what a ‘Hui’ means in the traditional Maori meaning of the word. After this indigenous opening we had the honor to be welcomed by Attorney General Loughman of Vanuatu.
Julian Aguon, founder of Blue Ocean Law, captured the urgency and depth of this fight for climate justice in his keynote address. He read a chapter from his captivating book ‘No country for eight spot butterflies’. He explained how Pacific communities are grappling with the profound impacts of climate change, from rising sea levels displacing villages to the cultural devastation brought by environmental degradation. His narration illuminated the resilience and resistance of Indigenous communities, determined not only to survive but to sustain their spiritual and cultural identities and livelihoods.
Exploring Pathways to Justice
The evening featured the following distinguished speakers:
April Nishimura (TREC) discussed the fundamental differences between Indigenous and colonial legal systems. She highlighted how Indigenous laws, rooted in collective responsibility and the rights of nature, offer holistic solutions to global environmental crises.
Brittien Yosef (MSG) shared the Melanesian Spearhead Group’s approach to integrating traditional knowledge into regional and international climate policies. Her insights emphasized the role of language and cultural practices in preserving Indigenous environmental wisdom.
Fleur Ramsay (Blue Ocean Law) argued for recognizing traditional knowledge as enforceable environmental law. Drawing on examples from Oceania, she illustrated how storytelling and customary practices embody legal principles that promote ecological balance.
Key Themes and Discussions
The event delved into critical themes, including the intersection of traditional knowledge with global climate justice mechanisms, the challenges of integrating Indigenous laws into modern legal frameworks, and the collaborative potential between Indigenous communities and policymakers. Panelists and attendees emphasized that Indigenous laws are not merely symbolic but serve as functional, effective environmental governance systems.
In a poignant moment during the Q&A, April Nishimura explained how Indigenous laws view ecosystems as interconnected wholes, contrasting with the reductionist tendencies of colonial legal systems. She called for a reevaluation of how global climate frameworks recognize and incorporate Indigenous practices.
A Call to Action
The Huii concluded with a cultural closing by Aunty Ivy, who led a prayer to honor ancestors and guide decision-makers in their pursuit of climate justice. Her words were a reminder of the interconnectedness of all life and the moral imperative to protect the earth for future generations.
As climate justice advocates continue their work, the discussions from this Hui resonate as a powerful call to center Indigenous voices and knowledge in the fight against climate change. By elevating these perspectives, the global community can move closer to a just and equitable response to the climate crisis.