The Asia Young Indigenous Peoples Network (AYIPN) stands in solidarity with the celebration of International Women’s Day.
We honor and give our highest salute to the immense contributions of women to the development of our societies. In Indigenous cultures, women play a central role in maintaining order, nurturing our communities, and preserving our cultural heritage. Indigenous women have historically been at the forefront of defending our ancestral lands and ensuring the survival of our traditions and way of life.
Yet, today, Indigenous women continue to face layered oppression—from exploitation as laborers to gender-based violence and discrimination. The ongoing seizure of our lands, militarization and displacement from our communities forces many Indigenous women into unsafe and abusive work environments.
AYIPN calls on young Indigenous women to stand strong and continue fighting for our rights—not only as women but as national minorities. We continue to amplify the call to end the exploitation of women and Indigenous resources, drawing inspiration from Indigenous women who have given their lives or faced imprisonment defending our identity and ancestral lands. These include Kalpana Chakma (Bangladesh), an activist who disappeared while defending Indigenous women and land rights; Bai Bibyaon Ligkayan Bigkay (Philippines), a Manobo leader who courageously protected Lumad ancestral lands; Hidme Markam (India), an Adivasi woman imprisoned for defending her community’s rights; and Mama Yosepha Alomang (West Papua), an Amungme leader who resisted the destruction of Indigenous lands by large-scale mining. We call for the release of all Indigenous political prisoners and justice for those who were killed defending our peoples and territories against mining, illegal logging, dams, and other threats.
Our fight continues for self-determination and liberation, even in the face of ongoing fascism and oppression. The courage of women standing up against abuse and defending ancestral lands is a fight for a world that is safe for women and children, and a world with true freedom and equality.
Happy International Women’s Day! 💐💜
#IWD2026 #WomensDay2026
