Mass migration to the archipelago has led to over-population which is having disastrous consequences for the environment and the Raizal population. Tourism-related development projects have led to the destruction of the natural landscape and damage to some of its most pristine shorelines. As a result of these harmful trends, Raizales believe that their traditional way of life as farmers, fishermen and seafarers is being threatened and that as a people they are on their way to extinction.
During the visit of the UN Special Rapporteur on racism, racial discrimination and xenophobia to the islands in 2004, representatives of the Raizal community complained of the political discrimination that they experience through marginalization from decision–making processes concerning their territory. They also spoke of the cultural and religious domination that they faced from mainland Colombians and the Catholic church, who are currently in control of the educational institutions and judicial systems. The exclusive language of instruction is in Spanish while the courts only use English. The economy is largely in the hands of mainland Colombians who reportedly employ very few Raizales.
However, despite such challenges Raizales have remained steadfast in their efforts to maintain their languages and traditions which they see as being predominantly Afro-Caribbean and closer to the culture of the peoples of Central America. In resistance to what they refer to as the neo-colonial oppression of the Colombian state, Raizales went as far as to proclaim themselves an independent state in June 2007 in the Raizal Independence Declaration.
Currently, the island is grappling with several pressing issues. The foremost concern is the growing population of non-native individuals, which has become a significant challenge for the territory. Additionally, the poor quality of the water, primarily obtained from rainfall and desalination, poses a serious problem. Moreover, the island faces food insecurity, as evidenced by the fact that 98 percent of all consumed items are imported. In light of these circumstances, the Colombian government is faced with the daunting task of not only including the island population in its policies but also ensuring that they benefit from them.
Source link : https://minorityrights.org/communities/raizales/
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Publish date : 2024-01-23 14:49:16
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