By Dilum Indrasena
In a historical move, a group of West Friesians has arrived at the United Nations Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, to formally seek recognition of their Indigenous title. Led by Ray and Sinda, representatives of the West-Friesian Indigenous Tribe, this group hopes to reclaim their long-lost status as Indigenous people of Europe. Their efforts form part of a larger global initiative, joining forces with Indigenous communities worldwide striving to preserve their cultures, lands, and rights under frameworks such as the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and ILO Convention 169.
Restoring Indigenous Identity and Autonomy
The West Friesians, tracing their heritage back thousands of years, have a distinct language, culture, and traditions that set them apart from mainstream Dutch society. Over the centuries, colonial powers and world conflicts eroded these unique identities, marginalizing Indigenous groups across Europe and beyond. Today, however, the West Friesians are determined to reclaim their title as Indigenous people, ensuring their heritage is protected for future generations.
Ray, known formally as Rene Otto Bijkerk and holding the title of Grand Chief of the West-Friesian Tribe, explained their mission: “We’re here to secure recognition for our tribe as an Indigenous people of Europe. Our ancestral land lies within what is now the Netherlands, but we have our own language and culture, distinct from Dutch society. For countless generations, we have lived close to nature, and now, modern society and its education systems are erasing our way of life. We feel the only way forward is to create a self-governed territory on our ancestral lands.”
Guidance from Indigenous Allies
The West-Friesians’ journey toward reclaiming their Indigenous status has been strongly supported by other Indigenous nations, particularly the Sihela Indigenous Peoples led by Buddhist Monk Ariyamagga. Originating from Sri Lanka, the Sihela people share a deep commitment to preserving Indigenous ways of life. In the words of Monk Ariyamagga: “My mission is to restore the Indigenous world—a world built on respect for all life. An eco-centric world nurtures the mindset needed for peace, balance, and understanding. Only within such a world can Enlightenment truly flourish.”
Ariyamagga emphasized that the shift from an eco-centric worldview to an anthropocentric one has been the root cause of many environmental and social crises. He explained that Indigenous people offer a path forward by prioritizing harmony with nature over-exploitation, a worldview that the West Friesians are eager to reintegrate into their daily lives.
Creating a Platform for Indigenous Voices
The West Friesians are also organizing a three-day seminar in January 2025 at the United Nations Headquarters in Geneva, aiming to establish the United Alliance of Indigenous Tribes and the Global Indigenous Economic Forum. This gathering will bring together Indigenous Nations and tribes from Africa, North America, and beyond, with the goal of creating strategies to address issues affecting Indigenous communities in today’s rapidly changing world. The Forum intends to address the global influence of entities like the World Economic Forum and national policies that often ignore or undermine Indigenous rights.
An Invitation to Join the Movement
Sinda, a key figure in the West Friesian delegation, extended an invitation: “We welcome all West Friesians who wish to return to our roots and live as our ancestors did. Reclaiming our title and our way of life is a powerful step against the encroaching forces of modern society. In January, we’ll be organizing a conference in Geneva for Indigenous tribes whose titles have been stripped away. Together, we’ll form strategic plans for the Global Indigenous Alliance.”
The West-Friesian movement aims to inspire Indigenous people across Europe and the world, uniting to preserve their cultures, protect their lands, and reclaim their identities. The hope is to bring lasting recognition and support to Indigenous communities, honoring their vital role in the world’s environmental and cultural landscapes.
