Indigenous and tribal peoples number over 370 million individuals. Their cultures comprise a heritage of diverse knowledge and ideas that is a resource to the whole world. However, many have lost control over their own development path through different historical processes. They are often excluded from political participation and their economies are being undermined through their lack of control over land and resources.

ILO Convention No. 169 is the only comprehensive and legally binding international instrument for protection of indigenous peoples' rights. Its fundamental concepts are consultation and participation, implying that indigenous and tribal peoples have the right to be consulted and to participate in policy, legislative, administrative and development processes that affect them, and to decide their own priorities for development.

We seek to specifically promote the rights of indigenous and tribal peoples based on Convention No. 169 through capacity-building of ILO and other professional staff.

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