Scoping project on Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge
Scoping project on Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge Report
DKCRC Research Report
- Author(s): Smallacombe, S., Davis, M., Quiggin, R.
- Tertiary Author(s): Desert Knowledge Cooperative Research Centre
- Published: 2007
- Publisher: Desert Knowledge Cooperative Research Centre
- Volume: 22
Abstract: This report canvasses the meaning of the term ‘Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge’, variously expressed elsewhere as Indigenous Knowledge, Indigenous Traditional Knowledge or Cultural Knowledge. It aims to raise awareness of the role of this knowledge in research, policy and programs concerning desert peoples. It proposes that the use of the term ‘Desert Knowledge’ in the name of the DKCRC underlines a need for the CRC to consider seriously the importance of Aboriginal Knowledge in planning and conducting research that aims to improve desert livelihoods. The first part of the paper is devoted to a discussion of aspects of Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge. It concludes that DKCRC has an opportunity to take a leading role in working with Aboriginal Traditional Knowledge in ethical ways and urges DKCRC to develop benefit-sharing arrangements with Aboriginal people that are based on international standards. The second part of the paper is a closer examination of measures for supporting the rights and interests of Aboriginal knowledge holders. With respect for customary law as its starting point, it explores what Aboriginal people and other Indigenous peoples have been doing to maintain their cultures and control the use of cultural knowledge. Acknowledging the misappropriation of this knowledge as a major threat and noting the pressure on Indigenous knowledges from growing international interest in developing biological resources, this part canvasses local, regional and international protocols, case studies and guidelines for research engagement with Indigenous peoples, including sui generis legislation and defensive protective measures. It also details existing regional and national legislation which may be applied to protecting the rights of the holders of Aboriginal knowledge and outlines international conventions which may apply, or on which Australian policy and practice may be modelled. In the absence of Australian legislation protecting the rights and interests of Aboriginal knowledge holders, intellectual property rights may provide some protection. There is, however, tension between IP rights and uses according to customary law and they are, in any case, drafted primarily to protect economic interests, which does not always serve the needs of Aboriginal knowledge holders. Clearly, free prior informed consent is an emerging international norm which can empower Indigenous peoples to make the best decisions possible over research and development involving their Traditional Knowledge. The third part of the paper outlines requirements for closer engagement with Aboriginal peoples in the region, starting from a long history of poor research practice, and finishing with emerging models for engagement. It suggests an information strategy for DKCRC, but proposes this be done within the context of more through organisational change that will give engagement of Aboriginal peoples in the region the highest priority, the appropriate resources and an appropriate commitment to the long-term.