Indigenous scholars and knowledge-holders meet in Aotearoa New Zealand

Indigenous scholars and knowledge-holders convened in November for the second Summit of a Tri-Academy Partnership between the Royal Society Te Apārangi, the Royal Society of Canada, and the Australian Academy of Science.

Led by Indigenous Fellows from the three countries, the 3-day Summit featured keynote speeches, wānanga, cultural activities, and panel discussions with Māori, Pasifika, and First Nations thought-leaders. More than 150 participants discussed how to dismantle academic barriers for Indigenous students and researchers, share decision-making about research practices, and shape Indigenous-led research agendas.

At the conclusion of the Summit, Indigenous delegates issued a Communique urging transformation of higher learning institutions to eliminate inequities, and calling for "a global research landscape that is inclusive, respectful, and transformative – one that recognises Indigenous Peoples as equal partners and leaders in the pursuit and application of knowledge."

The Presidents of the Royal Society Te Apārangi, the Royal Society of Canada, and the Australian Academy of Science responded with a Statement reaffirming their commitment to work together to help protect Indigenous Peoples' rights to determine their own research agendas, to explore and preserve traditional knowledge systems, to participate actively in research, and to benefit from its applications and outcomes.

The next Summit of the Tri-Academy Partnership will be hosted by the Australian Academy of Science and its partners in 2026.