traditional knowledge and biodiversity and cultural rights Bavadharani Alagar

Digital sovereignty and global equity

Sub-theme: traditional knowledge and bio diversity and cultural rights

AUTHOR'S DETAILS :

AUTHOR: S. Samyukktha BCom LLB (Hons)

Co-Author: S.A Bavadharani BCOM LLB (Hons)

INSTITUTION AFFILIATION: Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan University, Samayapuram, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, India

Email ID: samyukkthashanmugam@gmail.com, bavadharanialagar@gmail.com

ABSTRACT

Traditional knowledge is made up of the wisdom, practices, and skills that communities have developed and passed down over generations. This includes practices such as using medicinal plants, farming techniques, food preparation, and environmental protection. Usually, this knowledge belongs to the whole community, not just one person. As digital technology grows, more traditional knowledge is being recorded and stored online. While this helps preserve it, it also creates risks of unauthorised access and misuse. Because of this, digital sovereignty is important so communities can keep control over how their knowledge is used and shared.

Biodiversity means the variety of plants, animals, and ecosystems, and it is closely linked to traditional knowledge. Indigenous communities have long depended on biodiversity for their way of life and have played a big role in protecting it. On the other hand, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies often use biodiversity for research and business purposes. This situation can lead to an unfair distribution of benefits, since the communities that protect these resources may not receive adequate compensation. The idea of global equity highlights the need to fairly share the benefits derived from the use of biodiversity and traditional knowledge.

Cultural rights support this framework by recognising that people and communities have the right to keep and practice their cultures, languages, and traditions. These rights help communities hold on to their heritage, even as the world becomes more global and technology advances. Protecting cultural rights also means respecting who owns traditional knowledge and making sure it is not exploited.

Keywords: Digital Sovereignty, Indigenous communities, knowledge, cultural rights, heritage, digitalisation