THE INSPIRING RAPA NUI NATION'S EFFORTS TO REBUILD ITS GOVERNMENT AND REGAIN CONTROL OF ITS TERRITORY

Abstract

This paper aims to reflect the plight of the Rapa Nui People, the Indigenous people of Easter Island, who seek to fully exercise their right of self-determination. It outlines the relationship between the Rapa Nui Nation and Chile, particularly how both historical and contemporary actions of Chile demonstrate continued imposition of colonial rule onto a non-self-governing territory, leading to subordinate status for the Rapa Nui Nation. This paper covers both the legal acts and policies of Chile that advance concepts aimed at eliminating, assimilating, and intimidating the people of Rapa Nui. These are considered with regard to the UN Charter, and UN Declarations and Resolutions concerning rights of self-determination and obligations of states to cooperate in ending colonialism.