Indigenous Peoples
Indigenous peoples are culturally distinct societies and communities with collective ancestral ties to the lands and natural resources where they live, occupy, or from which they have been displaced. They are the earliest known inhabitants of an area and their descendants, especially in regions that have been colonized by a now-dominant group of settlers. Indigenous peoples are estimated to number more than 370 million, spread across 70 countries worldwide, making up approximately 6% of the global population. They are known by various names such as First Peoples, Aboriginal Peoples, or Native Peoples, and in some countries, specific terms like Adivasis (India) or Janajatis (Nepal) are used.
Indigenous peoples have retained distinct characteristics, including unique languages, knowledge systems, and beliefs, which are clearly different from those of other segments of the national populations. They also possess invaluable knowledge of practices for the sustainable management of natural resources and have a special relationship with and use of their traditional land, which is fundamental for their collective physical and cultural survival as peoples.
Despite their cultural significance, Indigenous peoples often lack formal recognition over their lands, territories, and natural resources, and they face multiple barriers to participate fully in the formal economy, access justice, and participate in political processes and decision-making. They also suffer from discrimination, higher rates of landlessness, and are often marginalized in countries legal systems, leaving them vulnerable to violence and abuse.
The international community has increasingly recognized the rights of Indigenous peoples through the adoption of international instruments such as the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. However, throughout history, their rights have been violated, and they are arguably among the most disadvantaged and vulnerable groups of people in the world.
In conclusion, Indigenous peoples are culturally distinct societies and communities with collective ancestral ties to their lands and natural resources. They have faced historical and ongoing challenges related to recognition, rights, and discrimination, and their unique cultures and ways of life are of significant importance to the global community.
