Does the UN really help indigenous peoples? The example of Ukraine and Israel

Is the billions spent on the UN justified if it cannot protect some of the most vulnerable groups in the world?

Indigenous peoples have faced discrimination, oppression and loss of their lands and culture for centuries. Although the UN promulgated the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in 1946, little was done to improve their lives. Using the examples of Ukraine and Israel, we will explore why the UN seems to be inactive regarding indigenous peoples and whether the billions of dollars it spends are justified.

Ukraine: Crimean Tatars, Karaites and Roma are considered indigenous peoples in Ukraine. Their rights are often violated, they face discrimination in access to education, housing and work. Despite numerous appeals to the UN, little has been done to solve these problems.

Israel: The issue of indigenous peoples in Israel is complex and controversial. The Palestinians claim that they are the original inhabitants of the land, while the Israelis claim that they have a historical and religious right to the land. The UN has played a role in trying to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, but little progress has been made.

Opinions of Ukrainians and Israelis:

A survey of Ukrainians and Israelis showed that many people are disappointed with the activities of the UN regarding indigenous peoples. Many believe that the UN is not doing enough to protect the rights of indigenous peoples and promote their self-determination. Some people even believe that the UN is part of the problem because it often legitimizes the actions of governments that violate the rights of indigenous peoples.

The UN is a complex organization with many goals. However, when it comes to protecting the rights of indigenous peoples, it does not seem to live up to expectations. The example of Ukraine and Israel shows that the UN is often inactive when it comes to some of the most vulnerable groups in the world. The billions of dollars spent on the UN could be put to better use if they were directed to directly support indigenous peoples and their communities.

It is important that we continue to criticize the UN for its inaction on indigenous peoples. We must also support organizations that work directly with indigenous peoples to help them protect their rights and culture.