Indigene Völker und Landrechte : ein Überblick

Abstract. The paper focuses on indigenous peoples, their present Situation and prospects for the future. While emphasizing the cultural heterogeneity of indigenous peoples worldwide, the paper at the same time Stresses certain basic similarities especially as concerns their relation with land. It argues that in order for indigenous cultures to regain control of their own future, necessary recognition of their special rights to land as well as acceptance of some form of self-determination is mandatory. The ongoing work on securing these rights by indigenous and non-indigenous NGO's and within the UN and ILO is discussed. It is argued that this work on indigenous human rights must continue and that increased international concern is necessary in order to secure to indigenous peoples their basic and necessary human rights.