C e n t e r f o r W o r l d I n d i g e n o u s S t u d i e s ************** NEWS RELEASE ************** =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= C O N G R E S S O F N A T I O N S A N D S T A T E S Dispute resolution between nations and between nations and states Legal aspects of free national development The Kremlin, Moscow, December 7-13, 1993 (tentative) =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= PURPOSE: To bring together the representatives of indigenous peoples and of states' governments to discuss the elemental issues which form the basis for disputes between nations and states, to refine the terms of reference of the universal rights of nations in their relations with states; and to begin to establish internationally agreed upon methods of resolving conflicts between nations and states, and among indigenous peoples themselves. The primary purpose of the Congress will be to consider and perhaps agree in principle to four protocols on relations between nations and between states in the economic, social, political, and strategic arenas. The Congress shall build on the Helsinki Final Act, and the work of the United Nations on the formulation of the Universal Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. HOST: This Congress is held at the invitation of the Chairman of the Supreme Soviet of Russia, Mr. Ruslan Khazbulatov, and supported by governmental decree. The government organizers are: Abdulatipov, Aramazan Chairman, Supreme Soviet Council of Nationalities Karnilova, Zoya Chairman, Supreme Soviet Commission on Small Minorities Kuramin, Vladimir Chairman, State Committee on Social & Economic Development Tishkov, Valery Chairman, State Committee on National Policy HOST COUNTRY BACKGROUND: Russia has sixty-eight indigenous groups with populations under 500,000 people. The territories they traditionally inhabit contain a high percentage of Russia's natural resources and mineral reserves, including an estimated 60% of its petroleum reserves. A recent referendum issued by the Tatars has increased the concern and impetus to move toward resolving such issues as the ownership of natural resources and self-determination. As it emerges from central control, Russia wishes to address these issues and hopes to do so in the context of an international forum. VENUE: The first Congress of Nations and States takes place in Moscow, Russia, December 7-13, 1993 (tentative). The Congress will be held in the Palace of Congresses of the Kremlin. PARTICIPATION: Participants will be invited from the approximately 3000 indigenous peoples of the world, and from all states with indigenous populations. The government of Russia is the host but will not serve as moderator nor mediator. The organizing committee of the Congress shall undertake to establish all protocols which govern the operation of the Congress. It is anticipated that 100 States' delegations and 600 Nations' delegations will participate. ORGANIZING COMMITTEE: An ad-hoc organizing committee is being formed, to further define the agenda and protocol for the Congress. This committee shall meet approximately 6 times prior to the Congress. In additition, five working groups are to be established to consider agenda items for the Congress. Protocol for the Congress shall be determined by the Organizing Committee. It is proposed that the members of the organizing committee shall be appointed by the following states, nations and non-governmental organizations: STATES: NATIONS: NGO's: ====================================================================== United States Lummi (United States) Foundation for International Japan Yakut-Sakha (Russia) Cooperation & Development Germany Maasai (Africa) International Independent Russia Tibetan (Tibet) Union of Lawyers San Blas Kuna (Panama) Center For World Indigenous Sami (Sweden, Norway, Studies Finland, Russia) INTERNATIONAL SECRETARIAT: The International secretariat, the Foundation for International Cooperation and Development (501(c)3) is responsible for coordination of activities of the organizing committee, for coordination of the working groups, for funding related issues, and for communications and coordination with the Russian organizers. Foundation for International Cooperation and Development 2911 Second Avenue, Suite 1000 Seattle, Washington 98121 telephone: 206-728-1563 facsimile: 206-728-1563 Mr. Norman Swanson, President COORDINATING BODIES: The following organizations are coordinating the Congress of Nations and States in conjunction with the Foundation for International Cooperation and Development, and in cooperation with the many private and public organizations interested and involved in the development of means of adequately addressing issues of dispute resolution between nations, and between nations and states: Center For World Indigenous International Independent Union of Studies Lawyers P.O. Box 2574 Bersenevskaya Embankment Olympia, Washington 98507-2574 Moscow, Russia fax: (360) 956-1087 tel: (7095) 244-7987 e-mail: jburrows@halcyon.com fax: (7095) 230-0164 Mr. Rudolph C. Ryser, Chairman Mr. Andrei Trebkov, President -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- To have a current Center For World Indigenous Studies Publication Catalogue sent to you via e-mail, send a request to jburrows@halcyon.com Center For World Indigenous Studies P.O. Box 2574 Olympia, WA U.S.A. 98507-2574 Fax: 360-956-1087 BBS: 360-786-9629