The disasters of settler colonialism: Ranjan Datta, ‘Settler Colonialism and Human-Created Disaster in Indigenous Communities in Bangladesh’, in Ranjan Datta, Decolonizing Climate Adaptation, Springer, 2025, pp. 23-33 | settler colonial studies blog

The disasters of settler colonialism: Ranjan Datta, ‘Settler Colonialism and Human-Created Disaster in Indigenous Communities in Bangladesh’, in Ranjan Datta, Decolonizing Climate Adaptation, Springer, 2025, pp. 23-33

01Oct25

Abstract: This chapter highlights the intensified impacts of settler colonialism and human-induced environmental crises on Indigenous communities in Bangladesh, with a focus on the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT), coastal regions, and wetland areas. It examines the multifaceted challenges these communities face, including land disputes, deforestation, large-scale development projects, and biodiversity loss, all of which are exacerbated by inequities in policy-making and governance frameworks. The chapter highlights how these issues are deeply rooted in historical and ongoing colonial practices that marginalize Indigenous populations, disrupt traditional land-based knowledge, and undermine sustainable practices. The chapter aims to achieve several key objectives. First, it explores the primary human-created factors, such as land encroachment, deforestation, and industrial development, that heighten climate vulnerabilities for Indigenous communities. Second, it centers the voices of Indigenous Elders and Knowledge-keepers to document their perspectives on these crises and the solutions they envision. Third, it emphasizes the importance of traditional land-based knowledge and cultural practices as critical strategies for climate adaptation and resilience. Finally, the chapter advocates for transformative policy changes, including the recognition of Indigenous land rights, support for self-determination, and the integration of community-led approaches into climate policies. By addressing these objectives, the chapter underscores the urgent need to decolonize climate governance and adopt collaborative approaches that amplify Indigenous voices and knowledge.

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