The role of sovereignty in Indigenous community‐based health interventions: A qualitative metasynthesis

Abstract

AbstractIndigenous peoples around the world suffer from health disparities attributed to a plethora of risk factors and social determinants of health stemming from colonialism and systemic oppression. Community‐based health interventions have been identified as a means for addressing and reducing Indigenous health disparities by allowing for Indigenous sovereignty to be respected and centered. However, sovereignty relating to Indigenous health and well‐being is underresearched. The present article explores the role of sovereignty in Indigenous community‐based health interventions. A qualitative metasynthesis was conducted among 14 primary research studies co‐authored by Indigenous people describing and evaluating Indigenous community‐based health interventions. Five conceptual themes emerged as aspects of sovereignty which benefit Indigenous health and well‐being outcomes: integration of culture; relocation of knowledge; connectedness; self‐actualization; and stewardship. Implications are discussed, with the goal of creating a decolonial framework rooted in Indigenous epistemologies and perspectives for how sovereignty impacts Indigenous health, as well as strengthening a clear need for further research on and praxis of sovereignty in Indigenous healthcare.