Indigenous Rights: Truth, Treaty, and Voice
A crucial dimension of human rights discussions in Australia involves Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Issues such as land rights, constitutional recognition, and systemic discrimination remain at the forefront.
The 2017 Uluru Statement from the Heart sparked widespread conversation by calling for a “First Nations Voice” enshrined in the Constitution and for a process of truth-telling about Australia’s colonial history. While the referendum to constitutionally enshrine a Voice to Parliament in 2023 did not succeed, the dialogue continues—highlighting both the challenges and the urgency of reconciliation. Would it have improved their lost human rights identity? If not, What Will?