Shared Histories a World Apart – Norwegian Sápmi and Indigenous Australia: Colonization, policies, and consequences

The Sámi in Norway have experienced centuries of internal colonization and harsh assimilation policies similar to that of the Aboriginal peoples of Australia. Having a shared history, it is vital to remember that all Indigenous peoples have a historical path significantly altered by colonization and for everyone to acknowledge that the label Aboriginality has been used to group the different experiences of distinct Indigenous peoples as one.
This chapter will explore Norwegian Sámi and Aboriginal Australian policies through history, and the consequences of these policies today, such as how colonization led to the introduction of certain policies that have had a negative impact on quality of life and health. Historically, Indigenous people have had little power to influence these factors and the public policy decisions that affect their lives and health.
Despite gains, Sámi people still struggle for recognition respecting their rights as an Indigenous people under international law. Simultaneously Australia is being held back by its unresolved relationship between the Government and its Indigenous populations. Clearly, these issues should be dealt with by listening to the voices of the Sámi and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, and by considering them with respect and as full and equal partners. This highlights the need for two-eyed seeing and calls for co-construction of culture revitalization as a road ahead.