United Indigenous Nations

Global Representative Body

International Treaties • UN / ILO

ILO Convention Nr. 169

Convention Concerning Indigenous and Tribal Peoples in IndependentCountries.
Protects cultural identity, land rights, self-determination, and the participation and
consultation of affected communities.

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Available in four languages. All files are in PDF format, accessible, and searchable.

EN

English

DE

German

FR

Français

ES

Español

At a Glance

  • What is it about?
    The rights of indigenous peoples and tribal peoples to protection and development.
  • Who is affected?
    States, indigenous communities, and companies with access to land.
  • Why is it relevant?
    Legally binding under international law upon ratification—the basis for consultation and land rights.

About the Convention

ILO Convention No. 169 aims to protect and promote the rights of indigenous and tribal peoples. It emphasizes the importance of these communities’ cultural identity, land rights, and self-determination.

Participation and Consultation

A central aspect is the right of indigenous peoples to participate in decisions that affect their lives and communities. States are obligated to consult with the affected groups appropriately and to incorporate their perspectives into the decision-making process.

Promotion of Economic and Social Development

The Convention promotes sustainable economic and social development that respects the needs and priorities of indigenous peoples. Development must not come at the expense of the communities’ cultural identity or the environment.

METADATEN

Issuer

ILO

Adopted

1989

In force since

1991

Resolution

—

Languages

EN, DE, FR, ES

Document type

Convention

Last review

2024

Note

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