Overview of Indigenous rights and outer space for the IAU-CPS Policy Hub (2412.06675v1)

Abstract: As part of the mission of the International Astronomical Union Centre for the Protection of the Dark and Quiet Sky from Satellite Constellation Interference (IAU-CPS) Policy Hub to consider national and international regulations about the usage and sustainability in outer space, we also included discussion specific to the rights of Indigenous peoples with respect to outer space under the context of the United Nations Declaration for the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). In this work, we review how some of the articles of UNDRIP require various actors in the use and exploitation of outer space including satellite companies, nation states, and professional/academic astronomy to consult and support Indigenous peoples/nations and respect Indigenous sovereignties. This work is concluded with recommendations for consulting and collaborating with Indigenous peoples and recommendations for moving from the traditional colonial exploitation of outer space and building an anti-colonial future in relationship with outer space.

• The paper highlights the critical need to integrate Indigenous rights, including cultural and economic dimensions, into outer space policy discussions guided by UNDRIP.
• It argues that respecting Indigenous connections to the night sky and ensuring equitable participation in space-related economies are crucial for future space policy.
• The work proposes shifting towards anti-colonial frameworks and recognizing responsibilities towards celestial bodies to foster more sustainable and ethical space practices.

Indigenous Rights and Outer Space Policy: A Comprehensive Perspective

The paper "Overview of Indigenous rights and outer space for the IAU-CPS Policy Hub" by Hilding Neilson presents an important discourse on the intersection of Indigenous rights and outer space policies, underpinned by the United Nations Declaration for the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). With the International Astronomical Union focusing on sustainable and equitable space policies, this paper addresses the imperative for Indigenous inclusion in outer space activities and decision-making processes.

The author outlines the necessity of respecting Indigenous sovereignties in the context of space utilization, emphasizing the historical significance of Indigenous connections with the celestial sphere. Recognizing the historical and ongoing impacts of colonization, the paper encourages a shift towards an anti-colonial framework for outer space endeavors, where Indigenous methodologies and consultation play a pivotal role.

Main Themes and Arguments

1. Cultural Rights and Outer Space: The paper highlights the intrinsic connection Indigenous peoples have with the night sky, illustrated through cultural practices, knowledge, and cosmologies. Neilson argues that light pollution and satellite proliferation could disrupt these cultural ties, potentially violating rights as enshrined in articles like 31.1 of UNDRIP. This emphasizes the importance of mitigating such impacts through informed consent and collaboration with Indigenous communities.
2. Economic Rights and Outer Space: Neilson posits that the economic dimensions of space should consider Indigenous peoples as key stakeholders. The paper suggests that the definition of traditional lands extends to celestial domains based on Indigenous worldviews and UNDRIP's framework. This calls for equitable participation in space-related economic activities, alongside the protection of traditional lands integral to cultural heritage.
3. The Role of the United Nations and Space Actors: The paper calls on the UN and global space actors to uphold Indigenous rights by engaging in collaborative policy-making. It highlights the need for equitable representation and benefits in the space economy for Indigenous communities, aligning with principles of free and prior informed consent.
4. Sustainability and Responsibilities: A notable contribution of the paper is the shift from traditional sustainability paradigms to those emphasizing responsibilities to celestial bodies and outer space environments. This perspective, rooted in certain Indigenous traditions, suggests a reciprocal relationship with space, advocating for practices that benefit both human endeavors and outer space ecosystems.

Implications and Future Directions

The implications of this research are twofold: practical and theoretical. Practically, the paper calls for immediate action in policy reform, including greater inclusion of Indigenous voices in space governance and equitable sharing of space resources. Theoretically, it challenges the status quo of space policy by proposing anti-colonial frameworks and revisiting the rights of celestial objects—dimensions often neglected in traditional policy-making.

In speculating on future developments, this work foreshadows a potential realignment of international space policies, possibly integrating Indigenous frameworks. Such integration could redefine our relationship with outer space, inspiring more sustainable and ethically sound practices. Moreover, it would reflect a growing acknowledgment of Indigenous wisdom and rights, potentially influencing other sectors beyond space.

In summary, Neilson's paper is a vital contribution to the discourse on space policy, highlighting the imperative of Indigenous inclusion and anti-colonial practices. It challenges policymakers and researchers alike to reconsider traditional paradigms, ensuring that the future of space exploration is equitable and respects the rights of all stakeholders.