The ILO Convention No. 169 aims to protect and promote the rights of indigenous and tribal peoples. It emphasizes the importance of the cultural identity, land rights and self-determination of these communities.
A central aspect of the convention is the right of indigenous peoples to participate and have a say in decisions that affect their lives and communities. States are obliged to consult the affected groups appropriately and to include their perspectives in the decision-making process.
The convention promotes sustainable economic and social development that respects the needs and priorities of indigenous peoples. It emphasizes that development must not take place at the expense of the communities‘ cultural identity or environment.