Indigenous Peoples: Keepers of Our Past - Custodians of Our Future (International Work Group for Indigenous Affairs (IWGIA))

Recognition of, and respect for the basic rights and freedoms of indigenous peoples is an important subject that has received growing attention from the international community mainly in the last 25 years. Erica-Irene Daes, the author of this book has been at the heart of the international discussion on indigenous peoples rights. She is internationally most known for her work in the Working Group on Indigenous Populations. As Chairperson of the Working Group from 1984 until her retirement as an active member of the Sub-Commission in 2001, she was one of the driving forces behind the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, she authored numerous UN studies on issues related to indigenous peoples rights and visited many indigenous communities all over the world. This book is Erica Daes’ personal record on more than twenty years of efforts to promote the cause of indigenous peoples and the recognition of their fundamental rights by the UN system. The author explores the definition of “indigenous peoples"; describe the resurgence of the world’s indigenous peoples in the international arena and review the work accomplished by the United Nations system over the last three decades, including new instruments and machinery for the recognition, and protection of indigenous rights. "Recognition of, and respect for the rights and freedoms of indigenous peoples is an important subject that has received growing attention from the international community especially during the last 25 years." "Erica-Irene Daes, the author of this book has been at the heart of the international discussion on indigenous peoples' rights. This book is her personal record of more than twenty years of efforts to promote the cause of indigenous peoples and the recognition of their fundamental rights by the United Nations. Through this account of her own experience, the author commemorates the suffering, oppression and discrimination experienced by indigenous peoples, and outlines their continuing struggle for freedom and for cultural, and physical survival. The book is also about her discovery of indigenous knowledge, heritage and culture, through her close relationships with many indigenous nations such as the Sami people of Europe; the Cree of Quebec (Eeyou Istchee); the Aboriginal peoples of Australia and the peoples of the Torres Start Islands; the Maya of Mexico and Guatemala; and the Ainu of Japan."--BOOK JACKET