Ratify the Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention 1989 (ILO Convention 169)

Background

We ask the Government to ratify ILO Convention 169 on Indigenous and Tribal Peoples and consider whether it would be appropriate to formally recognise the English, Scottish, Welsh, Cornish, and Manx as the indigenous peoples of Great Britain and its isles.

Additional details

We believe this would affirm their ancient cultural, linguistic, and genetic continuity. Britain's native peoples have inhabited these islands continuously since post-Ice Age times, with many recent genetic studies showing deep ancestry predating known major migrations. Recognition under ILO 169, and UNDRIP principles which the UK endorsed, would we believe protect distinct identities, languages, and heritage without exclusion. Comparable cases exist, e.g., Māori (arrived ~13th century, recognised in NZ) and Sámi (Bronze Age presence, recognised in Scandinavia). We believe this is about historical truth and cultural equity.

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