Global Certificate Course in Indigenous Land Rights Protection
Published on June 23, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today we're talking with Dr. Maria Santiago, an expert in indigenous land rights protection and the instructor of a new Global Certificate Course on this topic. Dr. Santiago, can you tell us what inspired you to create this course? GUEST: Absolutely, I've seen firsthand the struggles Indigenous communities face in protecting their lands and rights. This course aims to equip learners with the necessary knowledge and skills to advocate effectively for these communities. HOST: That's wonderful. In your experience, how important is understanding international human rights law in the context of indigenous land rights? GUEST: It's crucial. Many legal frameworks exist to protect indigenous land rights, but they're not always well understood or implemented. By studying human rights law, learners can help ensure these rights are respected and upheld. HOST: Now, one interesting aspect of the course is its focus on Indigenous knowledge systems. Can you explain why this is relevant to conservation efforts? GUEST: Indigenous communities have a deep understanding of their environments, often gained over generations. By recognizing and integrating these knowledge systems into conservation strategies, we can develop more sustainable and effective approaches. HOST: You also cover sustainable development in the course. How does this impact Indigenous territories, and what can we do to ensure development is inclusive and just? GUEST: Sustainable development can bring benefits, but it can also lead to the dispossession of Indigenous lands and resources. To ensure justice, it's essential to involve Indigenous communities in decision-making processes and to respect their rights to free, prior, and informed consent. HOST: That's a great point. Lastly, what challenges do you anticipate learners might face when studying this subject, and how does the course help them overcome these obstacles? GUEST: Learners may encounter legal complexities and cultural nuances that can be challenging. Our course offers practical experience through case studies and interactive sessions, helping learners develop a deeper understanding and ability to navigate these complexities. HOST: Dr. Santiago, thank you for sharing your insights and for creating this important course. We're confident it will empower many advocates to become champions for indigenous rights and contribute to a more just and sustainable world. GUEST: Thank you for having me. I'm excited to see the positive impact this course can have on learners and the communities they serve.
