August 09, Colombo (LNW): The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is being observed today (09), with this year’s global focus drawing attention to the vital role played by Indigenous midwives in protecting lives, health and community well-being.
The theme for 2026 is “Honouring Indigenous Midwives: Safeguarding Life and Well-being”, highlighting the knowledge and traditional practices passed down through generations within Indigenous communities.
The United Nations estimates that around 476 million Indigenous people live across more than 90 countries, representing approximately 6.2 per cent of the world’s population. Indigenous communities continue to preserve distinctive languages, traditions and knowledge systems, despite facing challenges relating to land, resources and access to essential services.
In Sri Lanka, the observance comes amid moves to introduce new regulations intended to balance environmental conservation with the traditional rights of Indigenous communities.
A Gazette notification containing the proposed regulations is expected to be issued today. The measures are aimed at governing traditional activities carried out by Indigenous communities within national parks and other designated protected areas, while maintaining safeguards for sensitive ecosystems.
The proposed framework is also expected to address longstanding difficulties faced by Indigenous communities in accessing forest areas under existing laws. Authorities are seeking to provide greater recognition for traditional livelihoods and cultural practices without compromising conservation objectives.
Communities living in and around the Maduru Oya and Gal Oya National Parks are among those expected to benefit from the new arrangements, which could provide greater scope for them to continue established traditions and livelihood practices with fewer administrative barriers.
The developments come as countries around the world mark the day by recognising the cultural contributions, traditional knowledge and rights of Indigenous peoples and renewing efforts to protect their communities and heritage.
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