CIP: All Affected Individuals Notified in Writing; Dedicated Hotline Services Available

Following the amendment to the Indigenous Peoples Status Act on January 3, 2024, individuals who have obtained indigenous status under Article 4, Paragraph 3 (prior to amendment) are required to either adopt or use an indigenous traditional name (alone or in combination) or take the surname of their indigenous father or mother within two years of the amendment’s implementation. Failure to do so within the prescribed period will result in the loss of indigenous status. In response to online claims that 1,317 individuals currently do not meet the updated requirements, the Council of Indigenous Peoples (CIP) stated: “All individuals who meet the relevant conditions have been notified in writing. As indigenous status involves personal choice, we will make every effort to assist those who wish to retain their status.”

The CIP emphasized that indigenous status registration is part of the household registration system and is closely tied to the protection of individual  rights. It involves multiple legal frameworks, including the Indigenous Peoples Status Act, the Civil Code, the Name Act, and the Household Registration Act. While administrative agencies must fulfill their obligation to inform, they must also respect individuals’ choices and intentions. As the law has already been amended, individuals are expected to actively safeguard their own rights and interests.

Regarding concerns that some individuals may lose their indigenous status after the expiration of the statutory grace period, the CIP noted that since late last year, it has issued multiple press releases and public information to provide accurate guidance. It has also worked with local councilors and village leaders to raise awareness among affected individuals.

The CIP further stated that, in January of this year, it completed written notifications to all affected individuals, and has coordinated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of the Interior to ensure that individuals who have served prison sentences or who are residing overseas also have accessible channels to complete the required procedures.

Finally, the CIP announced the establishment of dedicated hotline services on 02-8995-3456 (extensions 3690, 3062, 3077). Individuals with questions or difficulties are encouraged to call, and case-specific assistance will be provided.