The Right of Indigenous Peoples to Self-Determination: International Law Perspective

Abstract

The author offers an international law perspective on a specific issue of self-determination of indigenous peoples� The article begins with the definition of indigenous peoples, then proceeds to self-determination in general� The last section examines the forms of indigenous selfdetermination and its meaning for indigenous peoples� Indigenous peoples have a right to self-determination which allows them for control over their destiny, their livelihoods, their culture and customs� It may be realized, most of all, in the form of autonomy or self-governance� As such, self-determination allows indigenous peoples to participate in decision making in matters that affect their rights�