Kaljukohdat

Kaljukohdat, also known as Reindeer Herders' Rights, is a traditional Sami concept of land ownership and use. It refers to the traditional rights and practices of the indigenous Sami people to herd reindeer in the Arctic regions of Northern Europe, particularly in Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia.

The concept of kaljukohdat is deeply rooted in the Sami culture and is based on the idea that the land is shared by all Sami people, with no single individual or family owning a specific plot of land. Instead, the reindeer herders have the right to graze their animals on a large territory, without needing to own specific land parcels. This tradition has been passed down through generations and is an essential part of the Sami way of life.

However, the traditional Sami way of life and the concept of kaljukohdat are facing significant threats. The expansion of agriculture, mining, and other economic activities has led to the paving of traditional grazing grounds, leading to conflicts between the Sami people and the authorities. Additionally, the increasing demand for natural resources and the expansion of urban areas have put pressure on the traditional Sami lands.

The Sami Parliament, which was established in 1989 to protect the rights of the Sami people, has been working to strengthen the concept of kaljukohdat through international agreements and national laws. The cooperation with the authorities has led to the recognition of traditional Sami herding areas, but the continued struggles of the Sami people for the preservation of their rights and way of life remain important issues.