crackmitacsAll disciplines

Asian Studies

1 Mitacs Globalink (GRI) research projects for Summer 2027.

1. 5. Indigenous Community-Led Land-Based Disaster Crisis Management: Learning from the Global North (Canada and USA) and Global South (Bangladesh and Ghana)

One of the main objectives of this research is to analyze and document the indigenous community-led approaches to land-based disaster crisis management in both the Global North (Canada and USA) and the Global South (Bangladesh,. Nepal, and Ghana).

Research area, student roles & skills

Research area: Research in Indigenous community-led land-based disaster crisis management is critical for enhancing resilience and mitigating the impacts of disasters on Indigenous communities. This interdisciplinary field explores how Indigenous knowledge, practices, and governance systems can inform disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. By learning from both the Global North (Canada and USA) and Global South (Bangladesh and Ghana), researchers can identify best practices, challenges, and opportunities for collaboration across diverse cultural and geographical contexts.

Student roles:
Their role involves conducting participatory action research that prioritizes the voices and knowledge systems of Indigenous peoples, ensuring that research processes and outcomes are co-created and community-driven. This entails facilitating document and analyze community insights, community reports and manuscript writing to support the development of sustainable energy projects that align with Indigenous values and priorities. They also play a crucial role in bridging technical knowledge with Indigenous wisdom, assisting in the design and implementation of renewable energy systems that are culturally appropriate and sustainable.

Skills required:
A background in environmental studies, sociology, anthropology, or a related field is advantageous, as is experience with decolonial and anti-racist frameworks, which are essential for fostering respectful and equitable partnerships. Understanding the historical and contemporary contexts of Indigenous peoples' relationships with land and resources will enable students to contribute meaningfully to creating resilient and self-determined energy systems that honor Indigenous knowledge and sovereignty