The Examination of the Integration of Indigenous Knowledge in International Climate Discourse within the UNFCCC

Abstract

This thesis examines how Indigenous knowledge is integrated into climate change legislation at the UN and UNFCCC levels, as well as how Indigenous knowledge is shared and who are the members of the Indigenous community doing the sharing. Through the analysis of policy relevant texts, the study reveals that the current approach to this integration can be characterized as extractive colonialism. The research employs discourse analysis and thematic coding to identify and analyze five central themes in three policy relevant texts. The findings highlight the historical entrenchment of the UN and UNFCCC in colonial histories, leading to a tendency to undervalue the intrinsic worth of Indigenous knowledge within Indigenous communities. The sharing of Indigenous knowledge is explored, emphasizing its complexity beyond the mere transfer of ideas. The research underlines the concern that knowledge sharing, when not approached with a genuine understanding of its significance and without considering individual perspectives, can become an extractive action. The profound value that Indigenous culture places on knowledge is emphasized, recognizing it not only as a repository of personal histories but also as a crucial aspect of identity. The study advocates for a more inclusive approach that acknowledges both the knowledge and its holders to facilitate a meaningful exchange of insights within Indigenous communities