Understanding Indigenous Peoples

• The word "indigenous" originates from the Latin term "indigen," signifying a native or original inhabitant
• It gained popularity as a concept in the 17th century.
• A common understanding suggests indigenous people are the original inhabitants of a land.

Identity Question

• According to the UN, identifying rather than defining indigenous peoples is the most effective approach.
• Self-identification is the fundamental criterion, as emphasized in human rights documents.

Conceptualization of Indigenous Peoples by The International Working Group

• Self-identification is vital to the sense of identity of indigenous people(s) (IPs).
• Acceptance into the IP classification is important for IPs to assert collective rights and advance specific needs.
• Clear definitions enable IPs to be heard by governments and assert their right to self-determination.

Similarities in Defining IPs by the Asian Development Bank (2002)

• IPs are descended from groups inhabiting a geographic area before modern states and defined borders.
• IPs maintain unique identities with distinct social, economic, cultural, and political institutions.

ADB Definition of IPs

• The ADB defines IPs as “those with a social or cultural identity distinct from the dominant or mainstream society."
• These characteristics often put IPs at a disadvantage.

International Labor Organization (ILO) Convention Number 169

• It provides the criteria distinguishing "tribal people" from IPs.
• Tribal people share distinct culture, social organizations, economic conditions, and lifestyles.
• Tribal people possess unique traditions, customs, and/or legal recognition.
• IPs are characterized by historical continuity and thriving societies pre-conquest/colonization.
• IPs have a territorial connection to ancestors inhabiting a specific region.
• IPs possess distinct social, economic, cultural, and political institutions, retaining some or all of their own institutions.
• A key difference between tribal people and IPs is historical continuity and territorial connection.

UN Sub-Commission on the Prevention of the Discrimination of Minorities (1986) Definition of IPs

• IPs have historical continuity with pre-invasion and pre-colonial societies.
• IPs see themselves as distinct from other prevailing sectors of society.
• IPs form non-dominant sectors determined to preserve and transmit their ancestral territories and ethnic identity.
• Preservation, development, and transmission are the foundation for their continued existence.
• IPs act in accordance with their cultural patterns, social institutions, and legal systems.

UN Working Group definition of IPs

• Descendants of groups present when other cultures/ethnic origins arrived.
• IPs are isolated/excluded from other segments, preserving ancestors' customs/traditions.
• IPs are distant/alien to the State structure's characteristics.

Historical Continuity Factors by the International Work Group for Indigenous Affairs

• Occupation of ancestral lands, or part of them.
• Common ancestry with original occupants.
• Culture (religion, tribal system, membership in indigenous community, lifestyle, etc.).
• Language (primary/habitual means of communication).
• Residence in specific parts of the country/world.

World Health Organization (WHO) Aims

• Aims to advance the health status of indigenous people globally.
• The WHO acknowledges that most IPs have poorer health than non-indigenous groups worldwide.
• The WHO provides a modern, inclusive understanding of IPs due to the lack of a U.N. definition.
• Identifying with and being recognized as indigenous by their community is important.
• Demonstrating historical continuity with pre-colonial/settler societies is also a consideration.
• Strong links to territories and natural resources are further considerations.
• Distinct social, economic, and political systems are to be considered.
• Maintaining distinct languages, cultures, and beliefs is another factor.
• Forming non-dominant groups in society must also be considered.
• Resolving to maintain and reproduce ancestral environments and systems is also an important factor.

Summary

• The existing IP definition, based on international frameworks highlights key elements:
• Self-identification as a group member.
• Ancestral roots and descent from communities predating colonization/establishment of modern states.
• Historical continuity of way of life, including distinct cultural traditions inherited for generations
• Sustained ancestral language.
• Claim to ancestral land.
• Distinct way of life and non-dominant status.
• Aspiration for self-preservation and self-determination, despite external influences.

The Indigenous People

• IPs are inheritors/practitioners of unique cultures.
• IPs relate uniquely to people and the environment.
• IPs have retained distinct social, cultural, economic, and political characteristics.
• IPs face common problems related to protecting their rights, despite cultural differences.
• IPs sought recognition of identity, way of life, and rights to land/resources for years, but rights are violated.
• The international community recognizes special measures required to protect IP rights and maintain distinct cultures.