Indigenous land-based spirituality: climate crisis adaptations in the coastal regions of the Rakhine Indigenous community in Bangladesh

Ranjan Datta () and Somashree Chatterjee ()
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Ranjan Datta: Canada Research Chair in Community Disaster Research, Mount Royal University
Somashree Chatterjee: University of Manitoba

Journal of Environmental Studies and Sciences, 2025, vol. 15, issue 4, No 12, 916-928

Abstract: Abstract This study investigates the interplay between Indigenous land-based spirituality and climate crisis adaptation within the Rakhine Indigenous community in coastal Bangladesh. Using decolonial and Indigenist theoretical frameworks, it highlights how traditional land-based knowledge, rooted in spiritual practices and ethical values, showcases sustainable environmental governance and community adaption. Using Indigenous story-sharing as an Indigenist research methodology, the research engaged with Rakhine Elders and Knowledge-keepers, uncovering themes of interconnectedness, environmental stewardship, and sustainable consumption. Findings explain that Rakhine’s land-based spirituality not only promotes biodiversity and disaster resilience but also fosters ethical community behaviors critical for adapting to the climate crisis. However, colonial educational systems unrecognize this critical knowledge, alienating younger generations from their land-based sustainable heritage. The study advocates implementing Indigenous land-based Knowledge into mainstream curricula and climate policies to bridge cultural and generational divides. Documenting Rakhine Indigenous land-based knowledge, it addresses gaps in research and policy, highlighting the necessity of equitable representation and investment in preserving this wisdom. Academically, the study enriches discourses on decolonial methodologies and environmental ethics. Societally, it contributes to inclusive climate adaptation strategies, offering a sustainable model of climate justice. The research emphasizes that the implementation of Indigenous land-based spirituality is critical for sustainable responses to the climate crisis.

Keywords: Indigenous; Spirituality; Indigenist research; Community-led solutions (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s13412-024-00998-y

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