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Business interests and human rights are often seen as being at odds with each other, but when the desires and aspirations of Indigenous peoples are integrated into decision-making, positive outcomes are possible for all. That’s the case made by Arizona Law professor Sergio Puig in his new book, “At the Margins of Globalization: Indigenous Peoples and International Economic Law” (Cambridge University Press).
Professor Puig seeks to move indigenous peoples’ rights from the margins of international economic law to the center of the discussion.
“At the Margins of Globalization” explores how indigenous peoples are affected by globalization and suggests solutions for the future. The book explains how indigenous rights provisions have already been included in international trade and investment agreements and how to build from that success.
“It’s time to find sustainable solutions that address the most vulnerable people,” says Professor Puig, who is director of University of Arizona Law’s International Trade and Business Law program and is co-founder of TradeLab.org, an organization facilitating free legal assistance related to international trade and investment matters. He notes that the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing climate crisis make the need for change even more urgent.
Professor Puig was inspired to pursue this topic after trips abroad with University of Colorado Law School Dean and former Arizona Law professor S. James Anaya. The pair traveled to Costa Rica to observe regulations being developed to protect Indigenous peoples and to Mexico, where a wind farm was impacting local Indigenous communities.
Professors Puig and Anaya recently discussed the book in an interview. Watch here:
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