New academic book challenges the idea that global politics is making progress on indigenous issues and argues that contemporary colonialism operates through inclusion and benevolent practices of recognition.
The book, “Global Politics and its Violent Care for Indigeneity: Sequels to Colonialism”, written by postdoctoral researchers Marjo Lindroth and Heidi Sinevaara-Niskanen, critically examines the inclusion of indigenous peoples in international politics. In particular, the study draws on the developments that have taken place in the United Nations and the Arctic Council. The authors point out the ways in which seemingly well-meaning practices of international political and legal recognition, meant to address and compensate the wrong-doings of the past, are, in effect, colonial. By unveiling how contemporary neoliberal politics commissions a certain type of indigenous subject – one distinguished especially by resilience – the book offers a pioneering account of how international politics has tightened its grip on indigeneity. Through its engagement with discussions on biopolitics and the fostering of certain aspects of indigenous life, the volume argues that the current global care for indigeneity is violent in nature.
The book is published by Palgrave Macmillan and its printed and electronic versions are widely available online, in book stores and through the publisher.
The publication is linked to the research project “Indigeneity in Waiting: Elusive Rights and the Power of Hope”, funded by the Academy of Finland (2016-2020). Lindroth and Sinevaara-Niskanen will introduce the book in two open events: at the Arctic Centre (15 Jan 2pm, coffee room) and at the University main campus (2 Feb 10am, lecture room 10).
Further information:
Marjo Lindroth, Arctic Centre, marjo.lindroth[at]ulapland.fi
Heidi Sinevaara-Niskanen, Gender Studies, heidi.sinevaara-niskanen[at]ulapland.fi
www.ulapland.fi/InWaiting
Photo: Anna Muotka