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