2024-09-05 09:42:39
The Territorial Economic and Environmental Authorities – ATEA will be an instrument that would strengthen indigenous governance.
This Friday, the national government made official the decree that formally recognizes the Territorial Economic and Environmental Authorities – ATEA, an instrument designed to strengthen the governability of indigenous peoples in Colombia. The measure, which was long awaited by indigenous communities, has as its main objective the recognition of the Mandate of the Territorial Economic and Environmental Authority, specifically for the traditional authorities that make up the Regional Indigenous Council of Cauca (CRIC).
The decree establishes the powers of indigenous authorities and proposes coordination and operational mechanisms between them and the competent public entities. All of this is part of the comprehensive indigenous policy, respecting the Constitution, the constitutional block, and other normative instruments that protect the territorial, economic and environmental rights of indigenous peoples in Colombia.
Harmonizing governance
The document underlines the importance of harmonizing indigenous governance with national public policies, ensuring that ATEAs become a key player in the protection and management of indigenous territories, respecting the traditions and autonomy of these peoples. This legal and administrative recognition responds to the historical demands of indigenous communities for greater autonomy in the management of their resources and territories.
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In this context, it is relevant to remember that, in recent days, the government of President Gustavo Petro held a meeting with representatives of the indigenous minga in an effort to avoid the marches that could have been called due to the lack of agreements on the public order situation in the southwest of the country. The meeting was headed by the Minister of the Interior, Juan Fernando Cristo, who called on indigenous leaders to reach a consensus with the Government and avoid drastic actions, such as the recent blockade of the Pan-American highway that connects Cali and Popayán.
Call for dialogue
Cristo expressed his concern about recent actions, particularly the stance adopted by some indigenous groups who, according to him, have shown a refusal to engage in dialogue. “What the Aiso comrades did these days makes no sense, and the refusal to even engage in dialogue is completely irrational and seriously harms the indigenous community of Cauca in the eyes of the country,” commented the minister.
Recognition of ATEAs could be a significant step towards improving relations between the Government and indigenous communities, providing a more robust framework for autonomy and self-governance of indigenous peoples. However, effective implementation of this decree and true harmonization with national policies will require sustained commitment from all parties involved.
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