Burmans not classified as indigenous people

Burmans not classified as indigenous people, say specialists 

During a workshop on indigenous affairs today, experts pointed out that Burmans could not be classified as indigenous people like non-Burman populations in Burma raising comments from the participants. 

In reply to a question by a Shan youth, "Why are Burmans not mentioned as indigenous people like Shan, Mon, Arakanese and the rest?", the presenter from the International Working Group on Indigenous Affairs said, "According to UN definition following decolonization, only marginalized peoples are recognized as indigenous peoples." 

Another presenter, also from the Swedish-based IWGIA, added, "The majority of the Burman people under military rule are of course marginalized in a way, but they are not a conquered people, say, like the Arakanese." 

Some considered 'Indigenous People' a degrading term, to which the specialists said that at least it was better than the word, 'Minority'. 

"As minorities, you will not be entitled to the rights as stipulated by the Draft Declaration (on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples)," said one. "Even East Timor, while fighting for its freedom, took advantage of the forums for the Indigenous Peoples." 

Another expert, however, stressed that Independence is not the only option for those who are seeking self-determination. "A federal state can also be another choice in order to prevent war and further suffering." 

However, she conceded that it was for the peoples concerned to decide for themselves what status they wanted. 

The one-day workshop, organized by the United Nationalities League for Democracy, was attended by 24 participants from Arakan, Karen, Karenni, Mon and Shan state.