Indigenous peoples are under heavy pressures from development beyond their control. Their territories and natural resources are threatened and, hence, also their economies, cultures and customary ways of life. Yet, globally there is also an increasing awareness for the need to secure the rights of indigenous peoples. Indeed, we also see a growing, self-initiated empowerment process among indigenous peoples to meet these challenges.
Since the Rio Earth Summit in 1992, a legal process within the auspices of the UN has been underway that may help indigenous peoples to sustain their natural environment, industries and cultures. This book addresses some of the legal, political and institutional implications of these processes. Are the processes providing indigenous peoples with a more solid foundation for protection their natural environment and culture?
The international group of authors of the essays included draw on examples from different parts of the world (Canada, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, and Finland), which highlight the issues that are involved in indigenous peoples struggle for control of their lives and their future.
