Indigenous peoples conference wraps up in Taipei

2015/08/04

The National Administrative Conference for Indigenous Peoples wrapped up July 31 in Taipei City, underscoring the commitment of the government to enhancing the well-being of Taiwan’s unique ethnic groups.

Organized by the Council for Indigenous Peoples, the one-day event, held on the eve of the National Indigenous Day, focuses on the cultural, economic, political and social issues relating to these ethnic groups in Taiwan.

During the conference’s opening ceremony, President Ma Ying-jeou said although indigenous peoples account for only 2.3 percent of Taiwan’s population, they play a substantial role in promoting cultural and ethnic diversification throughout the country.

“Since I took office in May 2008, the government has adopted a policy incorporating the principles of respecting differences, upholding justice, and delivering greater self-governance and development for Taiwan’s 16 officially recognized indigenous groups,” Ma said.

Achievements in this regard include implementation of a four-year, NT$50 billion (US$1.58 billion) infrastructure project catering to the needs of these peoples, as well as earmarking NT$7 billion every year since 2013 on a homeland recovery and sustainable development program.

“To protect the legal rights of indigenous groups, the Ministry of Justice assigned 45 special prosecutors and the Judicial Yuan established 26 courts capable of hearing cases in accordance with tribal customs and traditions,” he added.

Ma said several initiatives have been implemented to preserve Taiwan’s 22 indigenous cultural heritages and languages, of which nine are endangered. These include the establishment of a dedicated archive in 2010, several tribal schools in southern Taiwan and a national museum set for launch next year.

“Going forward, all ministries and agencies will work harder to fast-track legislative review of two outstanding bills promoting the rights of indigenous peoples.”

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=233254&ctNode=413)