The ITNJ Commission
Uncovering truth and seeking justice - The ITNJ Judicial Commission of Inquiry
into the Doctrine of Discovery: Examining its origins, historical application,
and ongoing impacts to foster understanding and restorative actions.
Our Mission
The Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the Doctrine of Discovery, established by the International Tribunal for Natural Justice (ITNJ) at the request of the World Hereditary Council (WHC), is a dedicated body mandated to conduct a thorough investigation into a concept that has profoundly shaped global history.
“A world in which the Earth is honoured; Truth is spoken; Love is the basis of all action; and Justice is an organic, self-fulfilling function of respect for Natural Law.
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About This Commission
For over 500 years, the Doctrine of Discovery—rooted in 15th-century Papal Bulls—has provided the legal foundation for the systematic dispossession of Indigenous peoples worldwide, justifying colonization, genocide, and the theft of ancestral lands and resources under the guise of divine and legal authority. Despite the Vatican’s formal repudiation of this doctrine in March 2023, its legacy continues to shape modern legal systems, perpetuate injustices, and deny First Nations peoples their fundamental rights to self-determination.
The International Tribunal for Natural Justice Commission of Inquiry into the Doctrine of Discovery seeks to expose this centuries-old framework of oppression, document its devastating impacts on Indigenous communities globally, and chart a path toward restorative justice that honors the inherent rights and sovereignty of all peoples.

Terms of Reference

International Tribunal for Natural Justice Commission of Inquiry into the Doctrine of Discovery Terms of Reference Preamble: Whereas the Doctrine of Discovery originated from Papal Bulls in the 14th and 15th centuries, in particular, Unam Sanctam 1302, Dum Diversas 1452, Romanus Pontifex 1455, Aeterni Regis 1481, and Inter caetera 1493 etc.; and Whereas the Doctrine of Discovery dated from 4th May 1493 until 30th March 2023, was used to legitimise the theft and dispossession of First Nation Peoples’ lands, waters, DNA, and other resources; and Whereas the Doctrine of Discovery was used to justify colonisation and genocide of First Nation Peoples, their languages and cultures and Whereas the Doctrine of Discovery has been recognised by international bodies as a violation of Human Rights and a barrier to the full realisation of First Nation rights including the Right to Self-determination; and Whereas on 30th of March 2023 the Vatican formally repudiated the Doctrine of Discovery; Therefore, the World Hereditary Council requests the International Tribunal for Natural Justice (ITNJ) to establish a Commission of Inquiry into the Doctrine of Discovery. Terms of Reference: 7. To investigate the origins and historical context of the Doctrine of Discovery, including without limitation: 7.1. its development in International Law, and 7.2. its application in various Colonial contexts. To receive and formally document Testimony and examine the impacts of the Doctrine of Discovery on Peoples of the world including without limitation: 8.1. their cultures, languages, lands, waters, and other natural resources, and 8.2. the lasting effects of dispossession, forced relocation and genocide. To assess the ways in which the Doctrine of Discovery continues to impact the world today, including 9.1. local, regional, national and international entities, 9.2. multilateralism, 9.3. the continued reliance upon the Doctrine of Discovery in Law. To examine and expose: 10.1. the role of various 10.1.1. governments, 10.1.2. churches, 10.1.3. corporations, and/or 10.1.4. other parties 10.2. in propagation and enforcement of the Doctrine of Discovery 10.3. including their complicity in past and ongoing: 10.3.1. human rights violations, and/or 10.3.2. crimes against humanity. To recommend practical steps that can be taken to: 11.1. address the historic and ongoing impacts of the Doctrine of Discovery and 11.2. promote the full realisation of innate inalienable rights of Living men, women and children, 11.3. including the Right to Life and Self-determination via Free Will and Informed Consent. To produce a final report that summarises the findings of the Inquiry, including recommendations for restorative action by: 12.1. People, 12.2. communities, 12.3. governments, 12.4. international organisations, and 12.5. any other parties. To publish testimony, evidence, interim reports and a final report. To widely promote testimony, evidence, findings, reports and recommendations through various channels including, but not limited to: 14.1. public events, 14.2. media outreach, and 14.3. educational materials. The International Tribunal of Natural Justice Commission of Inquiry into the Doctrine of Discovery shall be composed of a diverse group of experts with relevant expertise and experience, including: 15.1. First Nation Peoples, 15.2. wisdom keepers, 15.3. spiritual leaders, 15.4. natural law proponents, 15.5. human rights advocates, 15.6. scholars, and 15.7. historians. The Commission shall hold the power to: 16.1. conduct research, 16.2. convene public hearings, and 16.3. compel, via Lawful Due Process, the production of relevant documents and testimony. The Commission shall: 17.1. function fully independent and free from political interference, and 17.2. shall operate with transparency and accountability in all aspects of its work. This Terms of Reference is to be used as a guide for the Commission of Inquiry into the Doctrine of Discovery and may be expanded as necessary to ensure the most comprehensive and effective investigation possible.

Our Purpose
To investigate the origins, historical application, and ongoing impacts of the Doctrine of Discovery. This includes examining its role in colonization, the dispossession of First Nation Peoples, and its persistent influence in contemporary legal, social, and political structures worldwide.
Our Mandate
We are committed to a comprehensive examination, gathering expert evidence and firsthand testimonies to illuminate the multifaceted consequences of the Doctrine. Our work aims to contribute to a deeper understanding and to lay the groundwork for meaningful dialogue and restorative actions.
The Timeline
1215
Magna Carta
1297
Magna Carta
1302
Unam Sanctum
1307
Last Templar
1455
Romanus Pontiflex
1481
Aeterni Regis
1493
Doctrine of Discovery
1535
Poor Laws
1537
CQV
1541
BAR
Understanding the Doctrine of Discovery
The "Doctrine of Discovery" refers to a series of international legal principles and papal bulls originating in the 15th century. These edicts purported to grant European Christian monarchs the right to claim lands inhabited by non-Christian peoples, often leading to their subjugation, dispossession, and the erasure of their cultures and governance systems.
This Commission seeks to explore how these historical doctrines became embedded in the laws of colonizing nations and continue to influence land rights, sovereignty issues, and societal structures today. Understanding its legacy is crucial for addressing historical injustices and building equitable futures.
Why This Inquiry Matters
1
Addressing Historical Injustices
By examining the past, we can acknowledge and understand the roots of ongoing inequities, creating a path towards healing and justice.
2
Giving Voice to Communities
The Commission provides a platform for First Nation Peoples and affected communities to share their collective experiences and testimonies.
3
Fostering Restorative Actions
Our findings and recommendations aim to inform and inspire tangible steps towards reconciliation and systemic change.
Témoignage
Individuals & Witnesses
Share your personal or community experiences related to the impacts of the Doctrine of Discovery. Your testimony is a crucial part of the historical record. We ensure a culturally sensitive and trauma-informed process.
Tribes & First
Nation Peoples
We invite official representatives authorized to speak on behalf of First Nation Peoples and communities to provide testimony and share collective experiences and historical impacts.
Researchers
and Experts
Contribute your specialized knowledge. We seek expert evidence on historical, legal, theological, and social dimensions of the Doctrine from scholars and practitioners.

Supporters
& Donors
Your support enables the Commission to conduct its comprehensive inquiry and outreach. Help us uncover truth and promote justice.



General
Public
Learn about the Doctrine of Discovery and its enduring legacy. Follow our progress, engage with our publications, and help raise awareness. There are many ways of helping to spread awareness. If you think you can help by sharing to social media and by telling your friends and family please join our Social Media Team. People need to know that it is not only the First Nations' people who have been defrauded….but the decsendents of the colonizers have been dis-enfranchised too.
Volunteer
Your Skills
We need people to help. If you have excellent organisational skills in IT & Data management then we need you badly! If you are an HR Professional we could definitely use your support.

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Our Commitment
Ethical Conduct
The Commission operates under a strict Code of Ethics, emphasizing respect, integrity, justice, accountability, and the prevention of harm. All participants are treated with dignity and fairness.
Cultural Sensitivity
We are committed to culturally sensitive and trauma-informed practices throughout all proceedings, guided by our Cultural Protocol Guidelines to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all, especially witnesses.
Witness Voice & Safety
Preserving the authentic voice of witnesses and ensuring their safety and well-being are paramount. Testimony is handled with the utmost care, forming the evidentiary core of our findings.
Expected Outcomes & Impact
The Commission's work will culminate in several key outputs designed to create lasting impact:
Formal Affidavits
Legally structured documents preserving witness testimony.
Expert Reports
In-depth analyses from subject matter experts.
Panel Findings & Recommendations
Synthesized evidence leading to actionable recommendations.
Commission Journal & Publications
Dissemination of research, findings, and educational materials.
Ultimately, the Commission will produce a comprehensive final report with recommendations for restorative actions, aiming to contribute to justice, reconciliation, and a more equitable future for all peoples affected by the legacy of the Doctrine of Discovery.
Get Involved & Contribute
Your participation is vital. The Commission invites individuals, communities, experts, and supporters to engage with our work in various ways.
Support & Participation can come in many ways:
  • Pushing the information on social media
  • Telling your friends about the work we do and its importance
  • Understanding that the descendents of the colonizers have also been dis-enfranchised as a direct result of this travesty of natural justice.
  • Understand that righting this wrong is essential. It has an impact far, far beyond a ceremonial apology from governments, or even a legal one.
  • Making sure that the WHC succeeds in its endeavour, guarantees a freedom for generations into the future that right now, we can only dream of.
The ITNJ Westminster Seatings
The International Tribunal for Natural Justice was launched at an inaugural seating in Westminster, London on April 16-18th 2018. The filmed testimonies below are now available via this Official Commission site to the Press,

The Judicial Commission will be conducting a thorough investigation into the Doctrine of Discovery -
a concept that has profoundly shaped global history.

The International Tribunal of Natural Justice

Judicial Commission of Inquiry in Westminster

THE WESTMINSTER SEATINGSLondon, England, 2018. The International Tribunal for Natural Justice launched the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Human Trafficking and Child Sex Abuse at an inaugural seating in Westminster, London on April 16-18th 2018. The filmed testimonies are now available via this Official Commission site to the Press, Public and all interested institutions and organs…

Connect With Us
For inquiries, submissions, or to learn more about supporting the Commission, please reach out. Stay updated by visiting the official ITNJ website for future announcements and publications.
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