Thawthi Taw-Oo Indigenous Park

In the face of generations of Burman-chauvinist oppression, state-perpetrated violence against Indigenous Karen peoples, and exploitative resource extraction in Taw-Oo District, theeight Karen sub-groups of Taw-Oo District have come together in defense of their right to protect and practice their unique traditional cultures.

KESAN works closely with local Indigenous communities and leaders to help and support them in their effort to establish this territory where Indigenous people are healthy and free to practice and conserve their traditional culture while sustainably managing the land and biodiversity. The Thawthi Taw-Oo Indigenous Park is currently in the initial stages, and is based on the Salween Peace Park which inspired Taw Oo communities to establish a similar initiative in their territories.

The Thawthi Taw-OoIndigenous Park will:

Revitalize and protect Taw-Oo Indigenous Peoples’ traditions, culture and unique worldview
Strengthen Indigenous Peoples’ governance and management of their ancestral territories and natural resources
Preserve bio-cultural diversity of Thawthi Taw-Oo Indigenous Park so that its rich ecological system can continue to thrive and benefit both present and future generations
Enable Indigenous People of Thawthi Taw-Oo Indigenous Park to determine their own sustainable development path