Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical August 5December 8, 2021 , 2021
Information
Carla Y. Davis-Castro
This report provides statistical information on Indigenous peoples in Latin America. Data and
This report provides statistical information on Indigenous peoples in Latin America. Data and
Research Librarian
Research Librarian
findings vary, sometimes greatly, on all topics covered in this report, including populations and
findings vary, sometimes greatly, on all topics covered in this report, including populations and
languages, socioeconomic data, land and natural resources, human rights
languages, socioeconomic data, land and natural resources, human rights
, and international legal and international legal
conventions. For example the figure below shows four estimates for the Indigenous population of conventions. For example the figure below shows four estimates for the Indigenous population of
Latin America ranging from 41.8 million
Latin America ranging from 41.8 million
to 53.4 million.to 53.4 million.
The statistics vary depending on the The statistics vary depending on the
source methodology, changes in national censuses, the number of countries covered, and the years examined. source methodology, changes in national censuses, the number of countries covered, and the years examined.
Indigenous Population and Percentage of General Population of Latin America
Indigenous Population and Percentage of General Population of Latin America
Sources: Graphic created by CRS using the WorldGraphic created by CRS using the World
Bank’s LAC Equity Lab with webpage last updated in July 2021; ECLAC and Bank’s LAC Equity Lab with webpage last updated in July 2021; ECLAC and
FILAC’sFILAC’s
2020 2020
Los pueblos indígenas de América Latina - Abya Yala y la Agenda 2030 para el Desarrollo Desarrol o Sostenible: tensiones y desafíos desde
una perspectiva territorial;;
the International Bank for Reconstruction and Developmentthe International Bank for Reconstruction and Development
and Worldand World
Bank’s (WB) 2015 Bank’s (WB) 2015
Indigenous Latin
America in the twenty-first century: the first decade; and ECLAC’s; and ECLAC’s
2014 2014
Guaranteeing Indigenous people’s rights in Latin America: Progress in
the past decade and remaining challengeschal enges. .
Notes: The World The World
Bank’s LAC Equity Lab webpage covers 14 Latin AmericanBank’s LAC Equity Lab webpage covers 14 Latin American
countries. ECLAC and FILAC’scountries. ECLAC and FILAC’s
report uses national report uses national
censuses from 17 countries, The Worldcensuses from 17 countries, The World
Bank report uses national censuses from 16Bank report uses national censuses from 16
countries to estimatecountries to estimate
the population and notes the population and notes
“for countries without census data available for the end of the decade, the Indigenous population was estimated by applying the “for countries without census data available for the end of the decade, the Indigenous population was estimated by applying the
percentage of the last census to the 2010 projection of the national population.” The ECLAC report includes a table titled “Latin percentage of the last census to the 2010 projection of the national population.” The ECLAC report includes a table titled “Latin
AmericaAmerica
(17 countries): population of Indigenous peoples according to censuses and estimates,(17 countries): population of Indigenous peoples according to censuses and estimates,
around 2010.” The population around 2010.” The population
percentage is based on the total population calculated in each source. percentage is based on the total population calculated in each source.
Definitions of Indigenous peoples also vary. The United Nations and many countries rely on self-identification of Indigenous
Definitions of Indigenous peoples also vary. The United Nations and many countries rely on self-identification of Indigenous
peoples. In counting distinct groups, this report uses the term “Indigenous groups” rather than “tribe,” “nation,” “ethnic peoples. In counting distinct groups, this report uses the term “Indigenous groups” rather than “tribe,” “nation,” “ethnic
minority,” or “sociolinguistic group.” minority,” or “sociolinguistic group.”
A compilation of selected informational resources, covering languages; socioeconomics; land, natural resources, and climate
A compilation of selected informational resources, covering languages; socioeconomics; land, natural resources, and climate
change; international organizations; and human rights, is available in the appendix as well as a list of national agencies that change; international organizations; and human rights, is available in the appendix as well as a list of national agencies that
oversee Indigenous affairs in each Central American or South American country. oversee Indigenous affairs in each Central American or South American country.
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2524 Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
Contents
Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 5
Terms .......... 1
Terms ............................................................................................................................... 5
Population Data ........ 1
Population Data ....................................................................................................................... 6 2
Indigenous Groups and Languages .......................................................................................... 11 6
Socioeconomic Data ...................................................................................................................... 15 10
Access to Services ................................................................................................................... 15 10
Access to Education and Work ................................................................................................ 18 13
Land and Natural Resources .......................................................................................................... 21 16
Climate Change ....................................................................................................................... 22 17
Human Rights and Multilateral Instruments ................................................................................. 23 18
Figures
Figure 1. Indigenous Population and Percentage of General Population of Latin America ............ 7 3
Figure 2. Indigenous Population in Latin America as Percentage of General Population by
Country ....................................................................................................................................... 10 5
Figure 3. Number of Indigenous Groups in Latin America ........................................................... 12 7
Figure 4. Number of Indigenous Languages in Latin America ..................................................... 12 7
Figure 5. Rates of Indigenous People Living on Less than $5.50 a Day in Select Latin
American Countries .................................................................................................................... 15 10
Figure 6. Electricity Access Rates in Select Latin American Countries ........................................ 16 11
Figure 7. Internet Access Rates in Select Latin American Countries ............................................ 16 11
Figure 8. Ownership of DwellingDwel ing Rates in Select Latin American Countries ............................... 17 12
Figure 9. Sewage Access Rates in Select Latin American Countries ............................................ 17 12
Figure 10. Water Access Rates in Select Latin American Countries ............................................. 18 13
Figure 11. Literacy Rates ages 18-65 in Select Latin American Countries (2021) ....................... 19 14
Figure 12. School Attendance Rates ages 6-25 in Select Latin American Countries (2021)......... 19 14
Figure 13. Unemployment Rates ages 18-65 in Select Latin American Countries (2021) ............ 20 15
Figure 14. High-Skill & Low-Skill Skil & Low-Skil Occupation Rates ages 18-65 in Select Latin
American Countries (2021) ........................................................................................................ 20
15
Tables
Table 1. Indigenous Populations and Percentages of General Population in Latin America
by Country .................................................................................................................................... 8 4
Table 2. Indigenous Groups and Languages of Latin America by Country .................................. 13 8
Table 3. Latin America and Multilateral Instruments on Indigenous Peoples’ Rights .................. 23 18
Table 4. Human Rights Events and Legal Cases about the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
in the Inter-American System 1996-2020 .................................................................................. 25
20
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Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
Table A-1. Resources on Indigenous Languages in Latin America ............................................... 27 23
Table A-2. Resources on Indigenous Socioeconomics .................................................................. 28 23
Table A-3. Resources on Indigenous Land, Natural Resources, and Climate Change in
Latin America ............................................................................................................................. 28 24
Table A-4. Resources on International Organizations and Indigenous Peoples in Latin
America ...................................................................................................................................... 30 26
Table A-5. Resources on Indigenous Peoples’ Human Rights in Latin America.... ....................... 3126
Table B-1. Principal National Agencies Overseeing Indigenous Affairs ....................................... 33 28
Appendixes
Appendix A. Data Sources and Resources Lists........... ................................................................. 2622
Appendix B. National Agencies of Indigenous Affairs ................................................................. 33 28
Contacts
Author Information ........................................................................................................................ 34 29
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3332 Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
Introduction
Congress has long been interested in the status of Indigenous peoples abroad. In 1992, the 102nd Congress has long been interested in the status of Indigenous peoples abroad. In 1992, the 102nd
Congress enacted H.R. 5368 (P.L. 102-391) requiring the State Department’s annual human rights Congress enacted H.R. 5368 (P.L. 102-391) requiring the State Department’s annual human rights
report to “describe the extent to which Indigenous people are able to participate in decisions report to “describe the extent to which Indigenous people are able to participate in decisions
affecting their lands, cultures, traditions and the affecting their lands, cultures, traditions and the
allocational ocation of natural resources, and assess the of natural resources, and assess the
extent of protection of their civil and political rights.” Issues relating to Indigenous peoples extent of protection of their civil and political rights.” Issues relating to Indigenous peoples
abroad abroad
periodicallyperiodical y have been considered in hearings focused on such topics as environmental have been considered in hearings focused on such topics as environmental
protection, energy opportunities, and human rights.1protection, energy opportunities, and human rights.1
This report provides statistical information on Indigenous peoples in Latin America, including
This report provides statistical information on Indigenous peoples in Latin America, including
populations and languages, socioeconomic data, land and natural resources, human rights, and populations and languages, socioeconomic data, land and natural resources, human rights, and
international legal conventions. A compilation of informational resources on languages; international legal conventions. A compilation of informational resources on languages;
socioeconomics; land and resources; international organizations; and human rights are available socioeconomics; land and resources; international organizations; and human rights are available
ii
n Appendix A. NationalNational
agencies that oversee Indigenous affairs in each country are listed in agencies that oversee Indigenous affairs in each country are listed in
Table B-1.
Terms
Definitions of Indigenous peoples vary. The United Nations (U.N.) has not adopted an official Definitions of Indigenous peoples vary. The United Nations (U.N.) has not adopted an official
definition, but instead relies on self-identification to categorize Indigenous populations around the definition, but instead relies on self-identification to categorize Indigenous populations around the
world; many countries do the same. However, the U.N. web page dedicated to Indigenous peoples world; many countries do the same. However, the U.N. web page dedicated to Indigenous peoples
does state “Indigenous peoples are inheritors and practitioners of unique cultures and ways of does state “Indigenous peoples are inheritors and practitioners of unique cultures and ways of
relating to people and the environment. They have retained social, cultural, economic and relating to people and the environment. They have retained social, cultural, economic and
political characteristics that are distinct from those of the dominant societies in which they live.”2 political characteristics that are distinct from those of the dominant societies in which they live.”2
The annex of the U.N. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples states “Indigenous The annex of the U.N. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples states “Indigenous
peoples have suffered from historic injustices as a result of, peoples have suffered from historic injustices as a result of,
inter alia, their colonization and , their colonization and
dispossession of their lands, territories and resources.” dispossession of their lands, territories and resources.”
The Organization of American States’ (OAS) American Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous
The Organization of American States’ (OAS) American Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous
Peoples repeats the U.N. Declaration language and adds “Indigenous peoples are original, diverse Peoples repeats the U.N. Declaration language and adds “Indigenous peoples are original, diverse
societies with their own identities that constitute an integral part of the Americas.” According to societies with their own identities that constitute an integral part of the Americas.” According to
OAS estimates, more than 50 OAS estimates, more than 50
millionmil ion people of Indigenous descent live in the Western people of Indigenous descent live in the Western
hemisphere. This report examines those living in Latin America. hemisphere. This report examines those living in Latin America.
According to the
According to the
Manual for National Human Rights Institutions that accompanied the U.N. that accompanied the U.N.
Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, “Indigenous peoples have argued against the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, “Indigenous peoples have argued against the
adoption of a formal definition at the international level, stressing the need for flexibility and for adoption of a formal definition at the international level, stressing the need for flexibility and for
respecting the desire and the right of each Indigenous people to define themselves.… As a respecting the desire and the right of each Indigenous people to define themselves.… As a
1 For example: U.S.1 For example: U.S.
Congress,Congress,
Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere, Peace Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere, Peace
Corps, Narcotics and Corps, Narcotics and
Terrorism, EnvironmentalT errorism, Environm ental Protection in an Era of Dramatic EconomicDram atic Econom ic Growth in Latin AmericaAm erica , ,
106th Cong., 2nd sess.,106th Cong., 2nd sess.,
July 25, 2000 (Washington, DC: GPO, 2000); U.S. Congress,July 25, 2000 (Washington, DC: GPO, 2000); U.S. Congress,
House Committee on Foreign House Committee on Foreign
Affairs, Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, Affairs, Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere,
Energy Opportunities in South AmericaAm erica, 115th Cong., 1st sess.,115th Cong., 1st sess.,
May May
17, 2017 (Washington, DC: GPO, 2017); U.S. Congress, 17, 2017 (Washington, DC: GPO, 2017); U.S. Congress,
TomT om Lantos Commission on Human Rights, Lantos Commission on Human Rights,
The Rights of
Indigenous Peoples in the AmericasAm ericas, 116th Cong., 2nd sess., November 20, 2020 (Washington, DC: GPO, 2020)., 116th Cong., 2nd sess., November 20, 2020 (Washington, DC: GPO, 2020).
2 U.N. Department of Economic and Social Affairs, “Indigenous Peoples at the UN,” at
2 U.N. Department of Economic and Social Affairs, “Indigenous Peoples at the UN,” at
https://www.un.org/development/desa/Indigenouspeoples/abouthttps://www.un.org/development/desa/Indigenouspeoples/about
-us.html. -us.html.
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Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
consequence, no formal definition has been adopted in international law. A strict definition is seen
consequence, no formal definition has been adopted in international law. A strict definition is seen
as unnecessary and undesirable.”3 as unnecessary and undesirable.”3
In counting distinct groups, this CRS report uses the term “Indigenous groups” rather than
In counting distinct groups, this CRS report uses the term “Indigenous groups” rather than
“tribe,” “nation,” “ethnic minority,” or “sociolinguistic group.” “tribe,” “nation,” “ethnic minority,” or “sociolinguistic group.”
A 2019 United Nations report notes “the persistent invisibility of Indigenous peoples” and “the
A 2019 United Nations report notes “the persistent invisibility of Indigenous peoples” and “the
need for disaggregated data” to address data limitations regarding Indigenous people around the need for disaggregated data” to address data limitations regarding Indigenous people around the
globe. However, the report notes progress in Latin America:globe. However, the report notes progress in Latin America:
“only two censuses included self-“only two censuses included self-
identification criteria in the 1990 round, but by the 2010 round such criteria were present in 21 of identification criteria in the 1990 round, but by the 2010 round such criteria were present in 21 of
them.”4them.”4
Despite some advances in data collection, the sources cited in this report contain data limitations,
Despite some advances in data collection, the sources cited in this report contain data limitations,
which are discussed iwhich are discussed i
n Appendix A. The countries listed in each table or graph of this report may The countries listed in each table or graph of this report may
differ from others in this report based on the information available in the sources. differ from others in this report based on the information available in the sources.
Population Data
There are various sources and methodologies for estimating the population of Indigenous peoples There are various sources and methodologies for estimating the population of Indigenous peoples
in Latin America, including official sources based on national censuses and household surveys, in Latin America, including official sources based on national censuses and household surveys,
and other kinds of estimates such as population projections or data from non-governmental and other kinds of estimates such as population projections or data from non-governmental
sources. Latin America is home to an estimated 41sources. Latin America is home to an estimated 41
million to 53 million .8 mil ion to 53.4 mil ion Indigenous people Indigenous people
according to several resources published in the last seven years.5 A 2015 World Bank report according to several resources published in the last seven years.5 A 2015 World Bank report
acknowledges the gap that may exist between official and unofficial data:acknowledges the gap that may exist between official and unofficial data:
“official data on “official data on
Indigenous people are not conclusive, as many technical and sociological difficulties persist in Indigenous people are not conclusive, as many technical and sociological difficulties persist in
census data collection. Other sources based on estimates and unofficial data refer to 50 census data collection. Other sources based on estimates and unofficial data refer to 50
millionmil ion Indigenous inhabitants in Latin America (about 10 percent of the total population). For this Indigenous inhabitants in Latin America (about 10 percent of the total population). For this
World Bank report, report,
however, we however, we
will wil refer to the official—albeit imperfect—numbers provided by the refer to the official—albeit imperfect—numbers provided by the
national national
censuses [41.81 censuses [41.81
millionmil ion].”].”
6
Census projections forecast Indigenous population increases in many countries in part due to
Census projections forecast Indigenous population increases in many countries in part due to
populations that are younger on average than non-Indigenous populations and in part due to an populations that are younger on average than non-Indigenous populations and in part due to an
increase in self-identification.7 When the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin increase in self-identification.7 When the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin
America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) published a report with the Development Fund for the America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) published a report with the Development Fund for the
3 United Nations, 3 United Nations,
TheT he United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples: A Manual United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples: A Manual
for National Human for National Human
Rights Institutions, HR/PUB/13/2, 2013, at Rights Institutions, HR/PUB/13/2, 2013, at
https://www.ohchr.org/Documents/Issues/IPeoples/UNDRIPManualForNHRIs.pdfhttps://www.ohchr.org/Documents/Issues/IPeoples/UNDRIPManualForNHRIs.pdf
. For more information about the . For more information about the
United Nations, the International Labor Organization and the World Intellectual Property Organization, see CRS United Nations, the International Labor Organization and the World Intellectual Property Organization, see CRS
Report R43614, Membership in the United Nations and Its SpecializedReport R43614, Membership in the United Nations and Its Specialized
Agencies, by LuisaAgencies, by Luisa
Blanchfield and Marjorie Blanchfield and Marjorie
Ann Browne. Ann Browne.
4 United Nations,
4 United Nations,
The state of the world´s Indigenous people: Implementing the United Nations Declaration on the
Rights of Indigenous Peoples, 4th volumevolum e, ST, ST
/ESA/371, 2019, at https://social.un.org/unpfii/sowip-vol4-web.pdf. /ESA/371, 2019, at https://social.un.org/unpfii/sowip-vol4-web.pdf.
5 In this report, Latin America includes Mexico, the land mass of Central America (Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador,
5 In this report, Latin America includes Mexico, the land mass of Central America (Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador,
Honduras, Nicaragua,Honduras, Nicaragua,
Costa Rica and Panama), and the land mass of South America (Colombia, Venezuela,Costa Rica and Panama), and the land mass of South America (Colombia, Venezuela,
Guyana, Guyana,
Suriname,Suriname,
Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, Paraguay,Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, Paraguay,
and Uruguay).and Uruguay).
The T he exception is French Guiana, exception is French Guiana,
which iswhich is
an overseas department of France and is not includedan overseas department of France and is not included
in this report.in this report.
6 International Bank for Reconstruction and Development/World Bank, 6 International Bank for Reconstruction and Development/World Bank,
Indigenous Latin America in the Twenty-First
Century: the First Decade, 2015, at http://documents.worldbank.org/curated/en/2016/02/, 2015, at http://documents.worldbank.org/curated/en/2016/02/
248638542 4863854/Indigenous-latin-/Indigenous-latin-
america-twenty-first-century-first-decade, p. 24. Hereinafter: World Bank, 2015. america-twenty-first-century-first-decade, p. 24. Hereinafter: World Bank, 2015.
7 Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean,
7 Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean,
Guaranteeing Indigenous people’s rights in Latin
AmericaAm erica: Progress in the past decade and remainingrem aining challenges, November 2014, p. 40, at , November 2014, p. 40, at
https://repositorio.cepal.org/bitstream/handle/11362/37051/4/S1420782_en.pdfhttps://repositorio.cepal.org/bitstream/handle/11362/37051/4/S1420782_en.pdf
. Hereinafter: ECLAC, 2014. . Hereinafter: ECLAC, 2014.
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Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
Indigenous Peoples of Latin America and the Caribbean (Spanish acronym FILAC) in 2020, the
Indigenous Peoples of Latin America and the Caribbean (Spanish acronym FILAC) in 2020, the
censuses reported over 53 censuses reported over 53
millionmil ion Indigenous people or 9.8% of the region’s total.8 Indigenous people or 9.8% of the region’s total.8
Figure 1 illustratesil ustrates the total number of Indigenous people and their share of the total population the total number of Indigenous people and their share of the total population
according to four sources: a 2014 ECLAC report (with population data from 2010), a 2015 World according to four sources: a 2014 ECLAC report (with population data from 2010), a 2015 World
Bank Report (with population data from 2010), a 2020 ECLAC and FILAC report using census Bank Report (with population data from 2010), a 2020 ECLAC and FILAC report using census
data from 2005-2018, and the World Bank’s LAC Equity Lab with data last updated in 2021 also data from 2005-2018, and the World Bank’s LAC Equity Lab with data last updated in 2021 also
using census data from 2005-2018. using census data from 2005-2018.
Figure 1. Indigenous Population and Percentage of General Population of Latin
America
Sources: Graphic created by CRS using the WorldGraphic created by CRS using the World
Bank’s LAC Equity Lab with webpage last updated in July Bank’s LAC Equity Lab with webpage last updated in July
2021; ECLAC and FILAC’s2021; ECLAC and FILAC’s
2020 2020
Los pueblos indígenas de América Latina - Abya Yala y la Agenda 2030 para el
Desarrollo el Desarrol o Sostenible: tensiones y desafíos desde una perspectiva territorial; the International Bank for Reconstruction the International Bank for Reconstruction
and Developmentand Development
and World Bank’s (WB) 2015 and World Bank’s (WB) 2015
Indigenous Latin America in the twenty-first century: the first decade;
and ECLAC’sand ECLAC’s
2014 2014
Guaranteeing Indigenous people’s rights in Latin America: Progress in the past decade and remaining
challengeschal enges. .
Notes: The World The World
Bank’s LAC Equity Lab webpage covered 14 Latin AmericanBank’s LAC Equity Lab webpage covered 14 Latin American
countries. ECLAC and FILAC’s countries. ECLAC and FILAC’s
report used national censuses from 17 countries, The Worldreport used national censuses from 17 countries, The World
Bank report used national censuses from 16 Bank report used national censuses from 16
countries to estimatecountries to estimate
the population and notes “for countries without census data available for the end of the the population and notes “for countries without census data available for the end of the
decade, the Indigenous population was estimated by applying the percentage of the last census to the 2010 decade, the Indigenous population was estimated by applying the percentage of the last census to the 2010
projection of the national population. The ECLAC report included a table titled “Latin Americaprojection of the national population. The ECLAC report included a table titled “Latin America
(17 countries): (17 countries):
population of Indigenous peoplespopulation of Indigenous peoples
according to censuses and estimates,according to censuses and estimates,
around 2010.” The population percentage around 2010.” The population percentage
is based on the total population calculated in each source. is based on the total population calculated in each source.
Table 1 shows a breakdown by country of Indigenous populations and their share of the shows a breakdown by country of Indigenous populations and their share of the
overall overal
population. CRS created the following tables from several sources; publication dates and population. CRS created the following tables from several sources; publication dates and
methodologies differed. The countries listed in each table may differ from other tables in this methodologies differed. The countries listed in each table may differ from other tables in this
report, based on the information available in the sources. report, based on the information available in the sources.
8 Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean8 Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean
and the Development Fund for the Indigenous Peoples and the Development Fund for the Indigenous Peoples
of Latin America and the Caribbeanof Latin America and the Caribbean
(Fondo para el Desarrollo de los Pueblos Indígenas(Fondo para el Desarrollo de los Pueblos Indígenas
de América Latina y el de América Latina y el
Caribe), Caribe),
Los pueblos indígenas de AméricaAm érica Latina - Abya Yala y la Agenda 2030 para el Desarrollo Sostenible:
tensiones y desafíos desde una perspectiva territorial,,
2020, at2020, at
https://www.filac.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Los-https://www.filac.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Los-
Pueblos-Indigenas-de-America-lLatina-y-la-Agenda-2030-para-el-Desarrollo-SostenibleAutosaved.pdf. Hereinafter Pueblos-Indigenas-de-America-lLatina-y-la-Agenda-2030-para-el-Desarrollo-SostenibleAutosaved.pdf. Hereinafter
ECLACECLAC
and FILAC, 2020. and FILAC, 2020.
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Table 1. Indigenous Populations and Percentages of General Population in Latin
America by Country
ECLAC & FILAC
LAC Equity
FILAC 2020:
Lab 2021:Lab
ECLAC 2014:
WB 2015:
2020: Indigenous
2021: Indigenous
CountryIndigenous
Indigenous
IndigenousPopulation with
Population with
Country
Population
Population
Population with
2005-2018 data
2005-2018 data
around 2010 (%
2010 estimate
with 2005-
with 2005-
around 2010
with 2010
2018 data (%
2018 data (%
(% of general
estimate (% of
of (% of general
of general
pop.pop.)a
of general pop.)b
pop..)c
pop..)d
955,032
955,032
955,032
955,032
955,032
955,032
926,003
926,003
Argentina
(2.4%)
(2.4%)
(2.4%)
(2.4%)
(2.4%)
(2.4%)
(2.3%)
(2.3%)
6,216,026
6,216,026
4,115,226
4,115,226
4,176,647
4,176,647
N/A
N/A
Bolivia
(62.2%) (62.2%)
(41%) (41%)
(41.5%)
(41.5%)
896,917
896,917
817,963
817,963
896,917
896,917
821,629
821,629
Brazil
(0.5%)
(0.5%)
(0.5%)
(0.5%)
(0.5%) (0.5%)
(0.4%)
(0.4%)
1,805,243
1,805,243
788,935
788,935
2,175,873
2,175,873
N/A
N/A
Chile
(11%)
(11%)
(4.6%)
(4.6%)
(12.4%)
(12.4%)
1,559,852
1,559,852
1,532,678
1,532,678
1,905,617
1,905,617
1,905,617
1,905,617
Colombia
(3.4%)
(3.4%)
(3.3%)
(3.3%)
(4.4%) (4.4%)
(4.3%) (4.3%)
104,143
104,143
104,143
104,143
104,143
104,143
101,870
101,870
Costa Rica
(2.4%)
(2.4%)
(2.4%)
(2.4%)
(2.4%) (2.4%)
(2.4%) (2.4%)
1,018,176
1,018,176
1,018,176
1,018,176
1,018,176
1,018,176
1,020,330
1,020,330
Ecuador
(7%)
(7%)
(7%)
(7%)
(7%)
(7%)
(7%) (7%)
14,408
14,408
14,865
14,865
13,310
13,310
13,730
13,730
El Salvador
(0.2%)
(0.2%)
(0.2%)
(0.2%)
(0.2%)
(0.2%)
(0.2%)
(0.2%)
5,881,009
5,881,009
5,880,046
5,880,046
6,491,199
6,491,199
6,481,762
6,481,762
Guatemala
(41%) (41%)
(41%) (41%)
(43.6%)
(43.6%)
(43.6%)
(43.6%)
536,541
536,541
548,727
548,727
646,244
646,244
601,823
601,823
Honduras
(7%)
(7%)
(7.2%)
(7.2%)
(7.8%) (7.8%)
(7.2%) (7.2%)
16,933,283
16,933,283
16,836,877
16,836,877
25,694,928
25,694,928
27,526,158
27,526,158
Mexico
(15.1%)
(15.1%)
(15%) (15%)
(21.5%)
(21.5%)
(23%) (23%)
518,104
518,104
349,333
349,333
321,753
321,753
187,840
187,840
Nicaragua
(8.9%) (8.9%)
(6%)
(6%)
(6.3%)
(6.3%)
(3.6%)
(3.6%)
417,559
417,559
417,559
417,559
417,559
417,559
416,080
416,080
Panama
(12.3%)
(12.3%)
(12.2%)
(12.2%)
(12.3%)
(12.3%)
(12.2%)
(12.2%)
112,848
112,848
112,848
112,848
117,150
117,150
N/A
N/A
Paraguay
(1.8%)
(1.8%)
(1.7%) (1.7%)
(1.8%) (1.8%)
7,021,271
7,021,271
7,596,039
7,596,039
7,628,308
7,628,308
6,383,284
6,383,284
Peru
(24%)
(24%)
(26%) (26%)
(26%) (26%)
(24.8%)
(24.8%)
76,452
76,452
76,452
76,452
158,560
158,560
Uruguay
N/A
N/A
(2.4%)
(2.4%)
(2.4%)
(2.4%)
(4.8%)
Congressional Research Service
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link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 10 Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
ECLAC &
LAC Equity
FILAC 2020:
Lab 2021:
ECLAC 2014:
WB 2015:
Indigenous
Indigenous
Country
Indigenous
Indigenous
Population
Population
Population
Population
with 2005-
with 2005-
around 2010
with 2010
2018 data (%
2018 data (%
(% of general
estimate (% of
of general
of general
pop.)a
general pop.)b
pop.)c
pop.)d
(4.8%)
724,592724,592
724,592
724,592
724,592
724,592
724,592
724,592
Venezuela
(2.7%)
(2.7%)
(2.8%)
(2.8%)
(2.7%)
(2.7%)
(2.7%) (2.7%)
44,791,456 TOTALe
44,791,456 (8.3%)
41,813,039 (7.8%)
53,363,900 (9.8%)
47,269,278
TOTALe
(8.3%)
(7.8%)
(9.8%)
(9.2%)
Sources: Compiled (9.2%)
Congressional Research Service
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link to page 9
Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
Sources: Compiled by CRS using the fol owing sources:by CRS using the fol owing sources:
ECLAC’sECLAC’s
2014 2014
Guaranteeing Indigenous people’s rights in
Latin America: Progress in the past decade and remaining challenges chal enges; the World; the World
Bank Group’s (WB) 2015 Bank Group’s (WB) 2015
Indigenous
Latin America in the twenty-first century: the first decade; ECLAC and FILAC’s; ECLAC and FILAC’s
2020 2020
Los pueblos indígenas de América
Latina - Abya Yala y la Agenda 2030 para el Desarrollo el Desarrol o Sostenible: tensiones y desafíos desde una perspectiva territorial;
andand
the Worldthe World
Bank’s LAC Equity Lab with webpage last updated in July 2021Bank’s LAC Equity Lab with webpage last updated in July 2021
. . Notes: a. ECLAC’s 2014 report covered 17 countries in Latin Americaa. ECLAC’s 2014 report covered 17 countries in Latin America
with population figures “according to censuses with population figures “according to censuses
and estimates,
and estimates,
around 2010.” around 2010.”
b. The World
b. The World
Bank’s 2015 report covered 16 countries in Latin AmericaBank’s 2015 report covered 16 countries in Latin America
and the estimated population figures and the estimated population figures
vary by country from 2001 to 2012 with some
vary by country from 2001 to 2012 with some
projections projections for 2010. for 2010.
c. The World
c. The World
Bank’s LAC Equity Lab webpage provided data on 14 countries in Latin AmericaBank’s LAC Equity Lab webpage provided data on 14 countries in Latin America
with the latest with the latest
population figures reported by each country varying from 2005-2018.
population figures reported by each country varying from 2005-2018.
d. ECLAC and FILAC’s
d. ECLAC and FILAC’s
2020 report covered 17 countries in Latin American with “the population2020 report covered 17 countries in Latin American with “the population
of self-of self-
identified Indigenous population according to the most recent census,” which varies
identified Indigenous population according to the most recent census,” which varies
by country fromby country from
2005 2005--
2018. 2018.
e. The population percentage is based on the total population calculated in each source.
e. The population percentage is based on the total population calculated in each source.
Figure 2 illustratesil ustrates the range of estimates regarding the Indigenous population as a percentage of the range of estimates regarding the Indigenous population as a percentage of
the general population in each country. Bolivia’s steep decrease in the Indigenous population the general population in each country. Bolivia’s steep decrease in the Indigenous population
reflects “reasons that probably have more to do with discrepancies in how the data were collected reflects “reasons that probably have more to do with discrepancies in how the data were collected
between the last two censuses than with a real trend to negative growth,” according to the World between the last two censuses than with a real trend to negative growth,” according to the World
Bank.9 More Bank.9 More
generallygeneral y, differences in data collection between censuses and across countries make , differences in data collection between censuses and across countries make
it difficult to estimate population changes. it difficult to estimate population changes.
9 World Bank, 2015, p. 10.
Congressional Research Service
9
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Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
Figure 2. Indigenous Population in Latin America as Percentage of General
Population by Country
Sources: Graphic created by CRS using the WorldGraphic created by CRS using the World
Bank’s LAC Equity Lab with webpage last updated in July Bank’s LAC Equity Lab with webpage last updated in July
2021, ECLAC and FILAC’s2021, ECLAC and FILAC’s
2020 2020
Los pueblos indígenas de América Latina - Abya Yala y la Agenda 2030 para el
Desarrollo
9 World Bank, 2015, p. 10.
Congressional Research Service
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Desarrol o Sostenible: tensiones y desafíos desde una perspectiva territorial; the International Bank for Reconstruction the International Bank for Reconstruction
and Developmentand Development
and World Bank’s (WB) 2015 and World Bank’s (WB) 2015
Indigenous Latin America in the twenty-first century: the first decade;
and ECLAC’sand ECLAC’s
2014 2014
Guaranteeing Indigenous people’s rights in Latin America: Progress in the past decade and remaining
challengeschal enges. Note: The sources note that figures are based on national censuses. The sources note that figures are based on national censuses.
For moreFor more
details seedetails see
Appendix A.
Congressional Research Service
10
link to page 12 Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
A.
Indigenous Groups and Languages
Following the International Year of Indigenous Languages in 2019, the United Nations declared Following the International Year of Indigenous Languages in 2019, the United Nations declared
2022-2032 the International Decade of Indigenous Languages.10 Experts 2022-2032 the International Decade of Indigenous Languages.10 Experts
foundobserved that that
4four in 10 in 10
Indigenous languages around the world are in danger of disappearing yet figures on Indigenous Indigenous languages around the world are in danger of disappearing yet figures on Indigenous
groups and languages vary among sources.11 groups and languages vary among sources.11
Data on Indigenous ethnic groups
“As for the number and distribution of ethnic groups, the issue
“As for the number and distribution of ethnic groups, the issue
is even moreis even more
problematic and the regional problematic and the regional
censuses might not be the best source,censuses might not be the best source,
because ethnic frontiersbecause ethnic frontiers
rarely match national borders and no country rarely match national borders and no country
keeps track of cross-borderkeeps track of cross-border
populations. Also,populations. Also,
different ethnic groups sometimesdifferent ethnic groups sometimes
receive…receive…
names given to names given to
severalseveral
unconnected peoples….unconnected peoples….
On the other hand, a singleOn the other hand, a single
group or linguistic familygroup or linguistic family
might receivemight receive
different different
names in different countries....” names in different countries....”
-- World-- World
Bank’s Bank’s
Indigenous Latin America in the twenty-first century: the first decade12
Figure 3 shows the total number of Indigenous groups in Latin America as identified by three shows the total number of Indigenous groups in Latin America as identified by three
sources. A 2009 UNICEF report identified a total of 655 Indigenous groups in 20 countries in sources. A 2009 UNICEF report identified a total of 655 Indigenous groups in 20 countries in
Latin America.13 The 2014 ECLAC report cites 826 Indigenous groups in Latin America although Latin America.13 The 2014 ECLAC report cites 826 Indigenous groups in Latin America although
it does not provide a country breakdown.14 Of these 826, about 200 Indigenous groups live in it does not provide a country breakdown.14 Of these 826, about 200 Indigenous groups live in
voluntary isolation, which is defined by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights as voluntary isolation, which is defined by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights as
groups that “do not maintain sustained contacts with the majority non-Indigenous population.”15 groups that “do not maintain sustained contacts with the majority non-Indigenous population.”15
The World Bank’s 2015 report identifies 774 Indigenous groups in 20 countries Latin America.16 The World Bank’s 2015 report identifies 774 Indigenous groups in 20 countries Latin America.16
The report adds “the total number of Indigenous peoples is not conclusive or fixed; rather, it The report adds “the total number of Indigenous peoples is not conclusive or fixed; rather, it
needs to be understood as a variable figure that is needs to be understood as a variable figure that is
continuallycontinual y changing as a result of new forms changing as a result of new forms
of indigenization, ethno-genesis, and legal recognition.”17 of indigenization, ethno-genesis, and legal recognition.”17
10 United Nations, “General Assembly10 United Nations, “General Assembly
Adopts 60 Adopts 60
ThirdT hird Committee Resolutions, Proclaims International Decade of Committee Resolutions, Proclaims International Decade of
IndigenousIndigenous
Languages,Languages,
Covering Broad Covering Broad
ThemesT hemes of Social of Social
Equality,” press release GA/12231, December 18, 2019, at Equality,” press release GA/12231, December 18, 2019, at
https://www.un.org/press/en/2019/ga12231.doc.htmhttps://www.un.org/press/en/2019/ga12231.doc.htm
11 United Nations News,
11 United Nations News,
“ “Four in 10 IndigenousFour in 10 Indigenous
languages languages at risk of disappearing, warnat risk of disappearing, warn
UN human rights experts,” UN human rights experts,”
AugustAugust
7, 2019, at https://news.un.org/en/story/2019/08/10438717, 2019, at https://news.un.org/en/story/2019/08/1043871
12 IBRD12 IBRD
and World Bank, 2015, p. 24. and World Bank, 2015, p. 24.
13 UNICEF and FUNPROEIB13 UNICEF and FUNPROEIB
Andes, Andes,
Atlas Sociolingüístico de Pueblos Indígenas en América Latina Vol. I, 2009, p. , 2009, p.
68, at https://www.unicef.org/honduras/tomo_1_atlas.pdf. Hereinafter, UNICEF, 2009. 68, at https://www.unicef.org/honduras/tomo_1_atlas.pdf. Hereinafter, UNICEF, 2009.
ThisT his figures excludes figures excludes
10 10
IndigenousIndigenous
groups from Antigua and Barbuda,groups from Antigua and Barbuda,
Dominica, French Guiana,Dominica, French Guiana,
Saint Lucia and Saint Lucia and
Trinidad and TobagoT rinidad and T obago, which , which
are not otherwise includedare not otherwise included
in the report. in the report.
14 ECLAC, 2014, pp. 38-39. 14 ECLAC, 2014, pp. 38-39.
15 Rapporteurship on the Rights of Indigenous15 Rapporteurship on the Rights of Indigenous
Peoples, Peoples,
Indigenous peoples in voluntary isolation and initial contact in
the Americas: RecommendationsAm ericas: Recom m endations for the full respect of their humanhum an rights, Inter-American Commission on Human , Inter-American Commission on Human
Rights, OEA/Ser.L/V/II.Rights, OEA/Ser.L/V/II.
Doc.47/13, 2013, p. 4, at http://www.oas.org/en/iachr/Indigenous/docs/pdf/reportDoc.47/13, 2013, p. 4, at http://www.oas.org/en/iachr/Indigenous/docs/pdf/report
-Indigenous--Indigenous-
peoples-voluntary-isolation.pdf. peoples-voluntary-isolation.pdf.
16 IBRD
16 IBRD
and World Bank, 2015, p. 26. and World Bank, 2015, p. 26.
ThisT his figure excludes figure excludes
six Indigenoussix Indigenous
groups groups from French Guiana. from French Guiana.
17 Ibid., p. 24. 17 Ibid., p. 24.
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Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
Figure 3. Number of Indigenous Groups in Latin America
Sources: Graphic created by CRS using UNICEF and FUNPROEIB Andes’ (UNICEF) 2009 Graphic created by CRS using UNICEF and FUNPROEIB Andes’ (UNICEF) 2009
Atlas Sociolingüístico
de Pueblos Indígenas en América Latina; the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development; the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development
and World and World
Bank’s (WB) 2015 Bank’s (WB) 2015
Indigenous Latin America in the twenty-first century: the first decade; and ECLAC’s 2014 and ECLAC’s 2014
Guaranteeing Indigenous people’s rights in Latin America: Progress in the past decade and remaining challenges chal enges. Note: These figures exclude French Guiana and Caribbean island nations. These figures exclude French Guiana and Caribbean island nations.
According to several sources, Indigenous languages number fewer than the number of Indigenous
According to several sources, Indigenous languages number fewer than the number of Indigenous
groups across the region as some languages are spoken by more than one group and some groups groups across the region as some languages are spoken by more than one group and some groups
no longer speak an Indigenous language (seno longer speak an Indigenous language (se
e Figure 4). A 2009 UNICEF report found 551 . A 2009 UNICEF report found 551
Indigenous languages spoken across 20 countries of Latin America while a 2015 World Bank Indigenous languages spoken across 20 countries of Latin America while a 2015 World Bank
report found 558 and a 2021 publication by the Summer Institute of Linguistics (SIL report found 558 and a 2021 publication by the Summer Institute of Linguistics (SIL
International) reported 881 Indigenous languages spoken across the same 20 Latin American International) reported 881 Indigenous languages spoken across the same 20 Latin American
countries.18 Speakers of Nahuatl, K’iche,’ and Aymara number over countries.18 Speakers of Nahuatl, K’iche,’ and Aymara number over
a millionone mil ion each and over each and over
5 million
five mil ion people speak Quechua and Guarani.19 However, 13 Latin American countries have people speak Quechua and Guarani.19 However, 13 Latin American countries have
50% 50%
or more of their Indigenous languages categorized as endangered.20 or more of their Indigenous languages categorized as endangered.20
Figure 4. Number of Indigenous Languages in Latin America
Sources: Graphic created by CRS using UNICEF and FUNPROEIB Andes’ (UNICEF) 2009 Graphic created by CRS using UNICEF and FUNPROEIB Andes’ (UNICEF) 2009
Atlas Sociolingüístico
de Pueblos Indígenas en América Latina; the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development; the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development
and World and World
Bank’s (WB) 2015 Bank’s (WB) 2015
Indigenous Latin America in the twenty-first century: the first decade; and SIL International’s 2021 and SIL International’s 2021
Ethnologue: Languages of the World (Twenty-fourth ed.). Note: Numbers indicate the number of living Indigenous languages. Not included are countries, primarily Numbers indicate the number of living Indigenous languages. Not included are countries, primarily
in the in the
Caribbean, whose only Indigenous languages are sign languages and CreoleCaribbean, whose only Indigenous languages are sign languages and Creole
languages based on European and languages based on European and
African languages. African languages.
18 UNICEF, 2009, p. 81. 18 UNICEF, 2009, p. 81.
ThisT his figure includes figure includes
six languagessix languages
in French Guiana.in French Guiana.
IBRD and World Bank, 2015, p. 26. IBRD and World Bank, 2015, p. 26.
This figure excludes T his figure excludes six languagessix languages
from French Guiana. Garyfrom French Guiana. Gary
F. Simons (F. Simons (
editoredit or), ),
Ethnologue: Languages of the World.
Twenty- edition, SIL, SIL
International, 2021, at https://www.ethnologue.com/. International, 2021, at https://www.ethnologue.com/.
19 David M. Eberhard, Gary F. Simons, and Charles D. Fennig (editors),
19 David M. Eberhard, Gary F. Simons, and Charles D. Fennig (editors),
Ethnologue: Languages of the World, twenty-
fourth edition, SIL, SIL
International, 2021, at https://www.ethnologue.com/. International, 2021, at https://www.ethnologue.com/.
20 Ethnologue, “20 Ethnologue, “
How many languagesHow many languages
are endangered?”are endangered?”
accessed July accessed July 7, 2021, at 7, 2021, at
https://www.ethnologue.com/guides/how-many-languages-endangered. https://www.ethnologue.com/guides/how-many-languages-endangered.
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1413 Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
Table 2 shows a breakdown of Latin America’s Indigenous groups and languages by country shows a breakdown of Latin America’s Indigenous groups and languages by country
according to three sources; the sources each have differentaccording to three sources; the sources each have different
publication dates and methodologies. The countries listed in each table may differ from others in publication dates and methodologies. The countries listed in each table may differ from others in
this report based on the information this report based on the information
available
available in the sources. in the sources.
Table 2. Indigenous Groups and Languages of Latin America by Country
UNICEF 2009
Indigenous Groups
WB 2015 Indigenous
SIL International 2021
Country
(languageslanguages)a
Groups (languageslanguages)b
(languages only)
30
30
30
30
--
--
Argentina
(15)
(15)
(15)
(15)
(15)
(15)
4
4
4
4
--
--
Belize
(4)
(4)
(4)
(4)
(5)
(5)
36
36
114
114
--
--
Bolivia
(33)
(33)
(33)
(33)
(39)
(39)
241
241
241
241
--
--
Brazil
(186)
(186)
(186)
(186)
(201)
(201)
9
9
9
9
--
--
Chile
(6)
(6)
(6)
(6)
(8)
(8)
83
83
83
83
--
--
Colombia
(65)
(65)
(65)
(65)
(81)
(81)
8
8
8
8
--
--
Costa Rica
(7)
(7)
(7)
(7)
(6)
(6)
12
12
32
32
--
--
Ecuador
(12)
(12)
(13)
(13)
(21)
(21)
3
3
3
3
--
--
El Salvador
(1)
(1)
(1)
(1)
(2)
(2)
24
24
24
24
--
--
Guatemala
(24)
(24)
(24)
(24)
(25)
(25)
9
9
9
9
--
--
Guyana
(9)
(9)
(9)
(9)
(11)
(11)
7
7
7
7
--
--
Honduras
(6)
(6)
(6)
(6)
(8)
(8)
67
67
67
67
--
--
Mexico
(64)
(64)
(67)
(67)
(282)
(282)
9
9
9
9
--
--
Nicaragua
(6)
(6)
(6)
(6)
(9)
(9)
8
8
7
7
--
--
Panama
(8)
(8)
(7)
(7)
(8)
(8)
20
20
20
20
--
--
Paraguay
(20)
(20)
(20)
(20)
(19)
(19)
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Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
UNICEF 2009
Indigenous Groups
WB 2015 Indigenous
SIL International 2021
Country
(languageslanguages)a
Groups (languageslanguages)b
(languages only)
43
43
52
52
--
--
Peru
(43)
(43)
(47)
(47)
(91)
(91)
5
5
5
5
--
--
Suriname
(5)
(5)
(5)
(5)
(12)
(12)
0
0
0
0
--
--
Uruguay
(0)
(0)
(0)
(0)
(1)
(1)
37
37
50
50
--
--
Venezuela
(37)
(37)
(37)
(37)
(37)
(37)
655
774
--
TOTAL
(551)
(558)
(881)
Sources: Graphic created by CRS using UNICEF and FUNPROEIB Andes’ (UNICEF) 2009 Graphic created by CRS using UNICEF and FUNPROEIB Andes’ (UNICEF) 2009
Atlas Sociolingüístico
de Pueblos Indígenas en América Latina; the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development; the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development
and World and World
Bank’s (WB) 2015 Bank’s (WB) 2015
Indigenous Latin America in the twenty-first century: the first decade; and SIL International’s 2021 and SIL International’s 2021
Ethnologue: Languages of the World (Twenty-fourth ed.). Notes: This report uses “peoples” rather than “tribe,” “nation,” “ethnic minority,”This report uses “peoples” rather than “tribe,” “nation,” “ethnic minority,”
or “sociolinguisticor “sociolinguistic
group.” group.”
a. Whilea. While
UNICEF and FUNPROEIB Andes’UNICEF and FUNPROEIB Andes’
2009 Atlas covered 25 countries in Latin America2009 Atlas covered 25 countries in Latin America
and the and the
Caribbean, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica,
Caribbean, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica,
French Guiana, Saint Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago are not French Guiana, Saint Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago are not
otherwiseotherwise
included. included.
b. While
b. While
the World Bank’s 2015 report covered 16 countries in Latin America,the World Bank’s 2015 report covered 16 countries in Latin America,
French Guiana is not included French Guiana is not included
in this report.
in this report.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, almost 20,000 Indigenous language speakers from Latin
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, almost 20,000 Indigenous language speakers from Latin
America reside in the United States.21 America reside in the United States.21
Indigenous languages also relate to issues such as biodiversity. A 2020 study states that “most of
Indigenous languages also relate to issues such as biodiversity. A 2020 study states that “most of
the places with the highest concentration of biological diversity coincide with spaces inhabited by the places with the highest concentration of biological diversity coincide with spaces inhabited by
Indigenous peoples whose members continue to speak the language of their ancestors” and Indigenous peoples whose members continue to speak the language of their ancestors” and
highlights Mexico and Brazil.22 A 2012 study explored “the co-occurrence of linguistic and highlights Mexico and Brazil.22 A 2012 study explored “the co-occurrence of linguistic and
biological diversity in regions containing many of the Earth’s remaining species…Results biological diversity in regions containing many of the Earth’s remaining species…Results
indicate that these regions often contain considerable linguistic diversity, accounting for 70% of indicate that these regions often contain considerable linguistic diversity, accounting for 70% of
all al languages on Earth.”23 The study languages on Earth.”23 The study
specificallyspecifical y notes Mesoamerica as a biodiverse hotspot with notes Mesoamerica as a biodiverse hotspot with
more than 250 Indigenous languages. Additionalmore than 250 Indigenous languages. Additional
resources about Indigenous groups and resources about Indigenous groups and
languages can be found ilanguages can be found i
n Table A-1.
21 Languages
21 Languages counted by the U.S. Censuscounted by the U.S. Census
Bureau Bureau are categorized as Aztecan, Sonoran, Misumalpan, Mayan languages, are categorized as Aztecan, Sonoran, Misumalpan, Mayan languages,
TarascanT arascan, Mapuche, Oto-Manguen, Quechua, Aymara, Arawakian, Chibchan, and , Mapuche, Oto-Manguen, Quechua, Aymara, Arawakian, Chibchan, and
TupiT upi-guarani. See-guarani. See
the U.S. Census the U.S. Census
Bureau,Bureau,
2009-2013 American Community Survey, “2009-2013 American Community Survey, “
Detailed Language Spoken at Home and Ability to Speak English Detailed Language Spoken at Home and Ability to Speak English
for the Population 5 Years and Over: 2009-2013,” October 2015, last revised October 6, 2020 at for the Population 5 Years and Over: 2009-2013,” October 2015, last revised October 6, 2020 at
https://www.census.gov/data/tables/2013/demo/2009https://www.census.gov/data/tables/2013/demo/2009
-2013-lang-tables.html. -2013-lang-tables.html.
22 Claudia
22 Claudia
Gafner-Rojas, “Gafner-Rojas, “
Indigenous languagesIndigenous languages
as as contributors to the preservation of biodiversity and their presence in contributors to the preservation of biodiversity and their presence in
international environmental law,” international environmental law,”
Journal of International Wildlife Law & Policy, (June, (June
12, 2020). 12, 2020).
23 L. J. Gorenflo, Suzanne Romaine, Russell
23 L. J. Gorenflo, Suzanne Romaine, Russell
A. Mittermeier, Kristen Walker-Painemilla, “A. Mittermeier, Kristen Walker-Painemilla, “
Co-occurring linguistic and Co-occurring linguistic and
biologicalbiological
diversity,” proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,diversity,” proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,
Vol.Vol.
109, no. 2 (May 2012), pp. 8032109, no. 2 (May 2012), pp. 8032
-8037. -8037.
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Socioeconomic Data
In a 2020 publication, the International Labor Organization (ILO) found that 45.5% of Indigenous In a 2020 publication, the International Labor Organization (ILO) found that 45.5% of Indigenous
people in Latin America are poor (living on less than $5.50 a day in 2011 purchasing power parity people in Latin America are poor (living on less than $5.50 a day in 2011 purchasing power parity
prices or PPP), and 7.1% are extremely poor (living on less than $1.90 a day in 2011 PPP prices), prices or PPP), and 7.1% are extremely poor (living on less than $1.90 a day in 2011 PPP prices),
more than twice the rates for non-Indigenous people.24more than twice the rates for non-Indigenous people.24
Using the World Bank’s LAC Equity Lab,
Using the World Bank’s LAC Equity Lab,
Figure 5 compares rates of Indigenous peoples living compares rates of Indigenous peoples living
on less than $5.50 a day to the general population in select countries of Central and South on less than $5.50 a day to the general population in select countries of Central and South
America. America.
Figure 5. Rates of Indigenous People Living on Less than $5.50 a Day in Select Latin
American Countries
Source: Graphic created by CRS using data from the WorldGraphic created by CRS using data from the World
Bank’sBank’s
LAC Equity Lab web page “Ethnicity – LAC Equity Lab web page “Ethnicity –
Poverty.” Poverty.”
Note: The World The World
Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported data. The numbers presented are Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported data. The numbers presented are
based on a regional data harmonization effort comprisedbased on a regional data harmonization effort comprised
of the Worldof the World
Bank and the Center for Distributive, Bank and the Center for Distributive,
Labor and Social Studies, which may differ fromLabor and Social Studies, which may differ from
official statistics. Monetary values are reportedofficial statistics. Monetary values are reported
in USD 2011 in USD 2011
purchasing power parity (PPP) terms.purchasing power parity (PPP) terms.
Last updated May 2021. Last updated May 2021.
Access to Services
A 2020 ILO report describes that “an important transformation is underway whereby many A 2020 ILO report describes that “an important transformation is underway whereby many
Indigenous peoples have migrated from their traditional territories to urban areas” due to factors Indigenous peoples have migrated from their traditional territories to urban areas” due to factors
such as “changing aspirations, employment opportunities in agriculture becoming scarce, poor such as “changing aspirations, employment opportunities in agriculture becoming scarce, poor
income generation opportunities, a lack of adequate infrastructure, as income generation opportunities, a lack of adequate infrastructure, as
well wel as an increasing as an increasing
resource scarcity related to climate change.”25 The resource scarcity related to climate change.”25 The
ILO report finds that 52.2% of Latin report finds that 52.2% of Latin
America’s America’s
Indigenous peoples are urban Indigenous peoples are urban
dwellers.26
dwel ers.26
24 International Labor Organization, 24 International Labor Organization,
Implementing the ILO Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention No. 169
Towards an Inclusive, Sustainable and Just Future, February 3, 2020, at https://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/---, February 3, 2020, at https://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/---
dgreports/---dcomm/---publ/documents//wcms_735607.pdf, p.96. Hereinafter, ILO, 2020. dgreports/---dcomm/---publ/documents//wcms_735607.pdf, p.96. Hereinafter, ILO, 2020.
25 ILO, 2020, p. 74.
25 ILO, 2020, p. 74.
26 Ibid., p. 57. 26 Ibid., p. 57.
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The World Bank provides statistics on Indigenous peoples’ access to various services in select
The World Bank provides statistics on Indigenous peoples’ access to various services in select
countries of Central and South America, last updated incountries of Central and South America, last updated in
July 2021. The following graphs compare July 2021. The following graphs compare
Indigenous rates of access to the general population by Indigenous rates of access to the general population by
countrycountry (Figure 6, electricity;electricity; Figure 7,
internet;internet;
Figure 8, home ownership; Figure 9, sewage; and home ownership; Figure 9, sewage; and Figure 10, water). Figure 10, water).
Figure 6. Electricity Access Rates in Select Latin American Countries
Source: Graphic created by CRS using data from the WorldGraphic created by CRS using data from the World
Bank’s LAC Equity Lab web page "Ethnicity - Bank’s LAC Equity Lab web page "Ethnicity -
AccessAccess
to Services."to Services."
Note: The World The World
Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported data. The numbers presented are Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported data. The numbers presented are
based on a variety of sources,based on a variety of sources,
which may differ from official statistics reported by governments and national which may differ from official statistics reported by governments and national
statistical offices. Last updated July 2021. statistical offices. Last updated July 2021.
Figure 7. Internet Access Rates in Select Latin American Countries
Source: Graphic created by CRS using data from the WorldGraphic created by CRS using data from the World
Bank’s LAC Equity Lab web page "Ethnicity - Bank’s LAC Equity Lab web page "Ethnicity -
AccessAccess
to Services." to Services."
Note: The World The World
Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported data. The numbers presented are Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported data. The numbers presented are
based on a variety of sources,based on a variety of sources,
which may differ from official statistics reported by governments and national which may differ from official statistics reported by governments and national
statistical offices. Last updated July 2021. statistical offices. Last updated July 2021.
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Figure 8. Ownership of Dwelling Rates in Select Latin American Countries
Source: Graphic created by CRS using data from the WorldGraphic created by CRS using data from the World
Bank’s LAC Equity Lab web page "Ethnicity - Bank’s LAC Equity Lab web page "Ethnicity -
AccessAccess
to Services." to Services."
Note: The World The World
Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported data. The numbers presented are Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported data. The numbers presented are
based on a variety of sources,based on a variety of sources,
which may differ from official statistics reported by governments and national which may differ from official statistics reported by governments and national
statistical offices. Last updated July 2021. statistical offices. Last updated July 2021.
Figure 9. Sewage Access Rates in Select Latin American Countries
Source: Graphic created by CRS using data from the WorldGraphic created by CRS using data from the World
Bank’s LAC Equity Lab web page "Ethnicity - Bank’s LAC Equity Lab web page "Ethnicity -
AccessAccess
to Services." to Services."
Note: The World The World
Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported data. The numbers presented are Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported data. The numbers presented are
based on a variety of sources,based on a variety of sources,
which may differ from official statistics reported by governments and national which may differ from official statistics reported by governments and national
statistical offices. Last updated July 2021. statistical offices. Last updated July 2021.
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Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
Figure 10. Water Access Rates in Select Latin American Countries
Source: Graphic created by CRS using data from the WorldGraphic created by CRS using data from the World
Bank’s LAC Equity Lab web page "Ethnicity - Bank’s LAC Equity Lab web page "Ethnicity -
AccessAccess
to Services." to Services."
Note: The World The World
Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported data. The numbers presented here Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported data. The numbers presented here
are based on a variety of sources, which may differ from official statistics reported by governments and national are based on a variety of sources, which may differ from official statistics reported by governments and national
statistical offices. Last updated July 2021. statistical offices. Last updated July 2021.
Access to Education and Work
A 2020 ILO report found that Latin America and the Caribbean has the largest wage gap between A 2020 ILO report found that Latin America and the Caribbean has the largest wage gap between
Indigenous earnings and non-Indigenous earnings at 31.2%.27 Similarly, the region has the largest Indigenous earnings and non-Indigenous earnings at 31.2%.27 Similarly, the region has the largest
informal labor gap of any region in the world, a sector that employs 82.6% of Indigenous peoples informal labor gap of any region in the world, a sector that employs 82.6% of Indigenous peoples
and 51.1% of non-Indigenous peoples.28 Among the employed Indigenous population, 31.7% and 51.1% of non-Indigenous peoples.28 Among the employed Indigenous population, 31.7%
have no education, 39.3% have a basic education, 18.7% have an intermediate education, and have no education, 39.3% have a basic education, 18.7% have an intermediate education, and
10.3% have an advanced education.29 10.3% have an advanced education.29
The World Bank provides labor and education statistics for Indigenous peoples in select countries
The World Bank provides labor and education statistics for Indigenous peoples in select countries
of Central and South America, last updated in July 2021. The following graphs compare of Central and South America, last updated in July 2021. The following graphs compare
Indigenous rates with general population by Indigenous rates with general population by
countrycountry (Figure 11, literacy;literacy; Figure 12, school attendance;school
attendance; Figure 13, unemployment; andunemployment; and Figure 14, low- low-
skill skil and high-and high-
skill skil employment).
employment).
27 Ibid., p.18. 27 Ibid., p.18.
28 Ibid., p.16. 28 Ibid., p.16.
29 Ibid., p. 81. 29 Ibid., p. 81.
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Figure 11. Literacy Rates ages 18-65 in Select Latin American Countries (2021)
Source: Graphic created by CRS using data from the WorldGraphic created by CRS using data from the World
Bank’s LAC Equity Lab web page "Ethnicity - Socio-Bank’s LAC Equity Lab web page "Ethnicity - Socio-
demographics." demographics."
Note: The World The World
Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported data. The numbers presented here Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported data. The numbers presented here
are based on a variety of sources, which may differ from official statistics reported by governments and national are based on a variety of sources, which may differ from official statistics reported by governments and national
statistical offices. Last updated July 2021. statistical offices. Last updated July 2021.
Figure 12. School Attendance Rates ages 6-25 in Select Latin American Countries
(2021)
Source: Graphic created by CRS using data from the WorldGraphic created by CRS using data from the World
Bank’s LAC Equity Lab web page "Ethnicity - Socio-Bank’s LAC Equity Lab web page "Ethnicity - Socio-
demographics." demographics."
Note: The World The World
Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported data. The numbers presented here Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported data. The numbers presented here
are based on a variety of sources, which may differ from official statistics reported by governments and national are based on a variety of sources, which may differ from official statistics reported by governments and national
statistical offices. Last updated July 2021. statistical offices. Last updated July 2021.
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Figure 13. Unemployment Rates ages 18-65 in Select Latin American Countries
(2021)
Source: Graphic created by CRS using data from the WorldGraphic created by CRS using data from the World
Bank’s LAC Equity Lab web page "Ethnicity - Socio-Bank’s LAC Equity Lab web page "Ethnicity - Socio-
demographics." demographics."
Note: The World The World
Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported data. The numbers presented here Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported data. The numbers presented here
are based on a variety of sources, which may differ from official statistics reported by governments and national are based on a variety of sources, which may differ from official statistics reported by governments and national
statistical offices. Last updated July 2021. statistical offices. Last updated July 2021.
Figure 14. High-Skill & Low-Skill Occupation Rates ages 18-65 in Select Latin
American Countries (2021)
Source: Graphic created by CRS using data from the WorldGraphic created by CRS using data from the World
Bank’s LAC Equity Lab web page "Ethnicity - Socio-Bank’s LAC Equity Lab web page "Ethnicity - Socio-
demographics." demographics."
Note: The World The World
Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported data. The numbers presented here Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported data. The numbers presented here
are based on a variety of sources, which may differ from official statistics reported by governments and national are based on a variety of sources, which may differ from official statistics reported by governments and national
statistical offices. Last updated July 2021. statistical offices. Last updated July 2021.
The socioeconomic
The socioeconomic
challengeschal enges faced by Indigenous peoples also impact their health. In light of faced by Indigenous peoples also impact their health. In light of
the Coronavirus Coronavirus
DieseaseDisease 2019 (COVID-19) 2019 (COVID-19)
pandemic, the United Nations highlights that , the United Nations highlights that
“Indigenous peoples
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“Indigenous peoples face limited access to quality and face limited access to quality and
culturallycultural y accessible health services, which already affect their accessible health services, which already affect their
health outcomes, such as high maternal mortality rates and lower life expectancy.”30 A joint report health outcomes, such as high maternal mortality rates and lower life expectancy.”30 A joint report
from the United Nations and the Pan-American Health Organization also highlights that the from the United Nations and the Pan-American Health Organization also highlights that the
“deficiencies in access to services and in living conditions, which prevent an optimal response to “deficiencies in access to services and in living conditions, which prevent an optimal response to
the pandemic, intersect with and reinforce the various axes of the social inequality matrix, placing the pandemic, intersect with and reinforce the various axes of the social inequality matrix, placing
at a particular disadvantage the Indigenous population.”31 A at a particular disadvantage the Indigenous population.”31 A
May 2021 2021
publication lists statistics from publication lists statistics from
six Latin American countries that reported 137,315 Indigenous six Latin American countries that reported 137,315 Indigenous
people infected with COVID-19 people infected with COVID-19
and 5,482 deaths caused by COVID-19.32and 5,482 deaths caused by COVID-19.32
In the
In the
appendix,appendix, Table A-2 lists resources relating to the socioeconomic standing of Indigenous lists resources relating to the socioeconomic standing of Indigenous
peoples in Latin America. peoples in Latin America.
Land and Natural Resources
A 2017 World Resources Institute A 2017 World Resources Institute
(WRI) article stated “the precise amount of communal land is article stated “the precise amount of communal land is
not known, but many experts argue that at least half of the world’s land is held by Indigenous not known, but many experts argue that at least half of the world’s land is held by Indigenous
Peoples and other communities. Some estimates are as high as 65 percent or more of the global Peoples and other communities. Some estimates are as high as 65 percent or more of the global
land land
area.”33 A 2015 report by the Rights and Resources Initiative found that legal y recognized land rights are far less: at the global level, 18% of land is owned by or designated for Indigenous
peoples and local communities while in Latin America it is over 23% of the land.34
area.” Legally recognized land ownership is far less: the WRI article specified that “globally, Indigenous Peoples and local communities have formal legal ownership of 10 percent of the land, and have some degree of government-recognized management rights over an additional 8 percent.”33 An evaluation of nine Latin American countries by the An evaluation of nine Latin American countries by the
Resources and RightsRights and Resources Initiative Initiative
found that the forest area owned by Indigenous peoples and local communities increased between found that the forest area owned by Indigenous peoples and local communities increased between
2002 (171 2002 (171
million mil ion hectares or 21% of the total forested area) and 2017 (236 hectares or 21% of the total forested area) and 2017 (236
millionmil ion hectares or hectares or
29.9% 29.9%
percent of the total forested area).35 In 2021, several countries, including the United States, together with numerous foundations, have committed to providing $1.7 bil ion to help Indigenous
peoples secure tenure rights over the land in recognition of “the critical guardianship provided by...protecting tropical forests and preserving vital ecosystem services, and the global contribution they make to climate change mitigation, biodiversity preservation, and inclusive and
sustainable development.”36
The United Nations’ Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean’s (ECLAC) 2014 report states that “over the past decade, booming international demand for primary goods (minerals, hydrocarbons, soybeans and other agricultural commodities) has boosted economic 30 UN Inter-Agency Support Group on Indigenous Issues, “Indigenous Peoples and COVID-19 A Guidance Note for the UN System prepared by the UN Inter- Agency Support Group on Indigenous Issues,” April 23, 2020, at https://www.un.org/development/desa/Indigenouspeoples/wp percent of the total forested area).34
The United Nations’ Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean’s (ECLAC) 2014 report states that “over the past decade, booming international demand for primary goods (minerals, hydrocarbons, soybeans and other agricultural commodities) has boosted economic growth in the countries of Latin America but has had its cost in the form of a growing number of environmental, social and ethnic conflicts involving extractive industries located in or near Indigenous territories.”35
In its 2015 report, the IACHR wrote that “through the implementation of its monitoring mechanisms, the Commission has consistently received information evidencing the human, social, health, cultural and environmental impacts of [extraction, exploitation, and development
30 UN Inter-Agency Support Group on Indigenous Issues, “Indigenous Peoples and COVID-19 A Guidance Note for the UN System prepared by the UN Inter- Agency Support Group on Indigenous Issues,” April 23, 2020, at https://www.un.org/development/desa/Indigenouspeoples/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2020/04/Indigenous-peoples--content/uploads/sites/19/2020/04/Indigenous-peoples-
and-COVID_IASG_23.04.2020-EN.pdf and-COVID_IASG_23.04.2020-EN.pdf
31 United Nations’ Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean
31 United Nations’ Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean
and the Pan American Health and the Pan American Health
Organization, Organization,
Social PanoramaPanoram a of Latin America 2020Am erica 2020 , 2021, p. 18. , 2021, p. 18.
32 Fund32 Fund
for the Development of the Indigenous Peoples of Latin America and the Caribbeanfor the Development of the Indigenous Peoples of Latin America and the Caribbean
and, the Indigenous Forum and, the Indigenous Forum
Abya Yala, Abya Yala,
Pueblos Indígenas y vacunación contra COVID-19: cuarto informeinform e regional, May 2021, at May 2021, at
https://www.filac.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/informe-acceso-a-vacunasTP.pdf. https://www.filac.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/informe-acceso-a-vacunasTP.pdf.
33 Peter Veit and Katie Reytar, “By the Numbers: Indigenous
33 Peter Veit and Katie Reytar, “By the Numbers: Indigenous
and Community Land Rights,” World Resourcesand Community Land Rights,” World Resources
Institute, Institute,
March 20, 2017, at https://www.wri.org/blog/2017/03/numbers-Indigenous-and-community-land-rights. March 20, 2017, at https://www.wri.org/blog/2017/03/numbers-Indigenous-and-community-land-rights.
34 Rights and Resources34 Rights and Resources
Initiative, Who Owns the World’s Land? A global baseline of formally recognized indigenous and com m unity land rights, September 2015.
35 Rights and Resources Initiative, Initiative,
At a Crossroads: Consequential Trends in Recognition of Community-Based Forest
Tenure from 2002-2017, September 2018.
36 United Nations Climate Change Conference, United Kingdom 2021, “COP26 IPLC Forest T enure Joint Donor Statement,” November 2, 2021, at https://ukcop26.org/cop26-iplc-forest-tenure-joint-donor-statement/2002-2017, September 2018, at https://rightsandresources.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/At-A-Crossroads_RRI_Nov-2018.pdf.
35 ECLAC, 2014, p. 50. .
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growth in the countries of Latin America but has had its cost in the form of a growing number of environmental, social and ethnic conflicts involving extractive industries located in or near
Indigenous territories.”37
In its 2015 report, the IACHR wrote that “through the implementation of its monitoring mechanisms, the Commission has consistently received information evidencing the human, social, health, cultural and environmental impacts of [extraction, exploitation, and development activities concerning natural resources] on Indigenous peoples and Afrodescendent communities. activities concerning natural resources] on Indigenous peoples and Afrodescendent communities.
Many extractive and development activities in the hemisphere are implemented in lands and Many extractive and development activities in the hemisphere are implemented in lands and
territories territories
historicallyhistorical y occupied by Indigenous and Afro-descendent communities, which often occupied by Indigenous and Afro-descendent communities, which often
coincide with areas hosting a great wealth of natural resources.”coincide with areas hosting a great wealth of natural resources.”
3638 For example, a 2020 report For example, a 2020 report
found that “industrial mining concessions and found that “industrial mining concessions and
illegal smallil egal smal -scale mining occur on more than 20 -scale mining occur on more than 20
percent of Indigenous lands in the Amazon.”percent of Indigenous lands in the Amazon.”
3739
Climate Change
Indigenous peoples are particularly affected by climate change; they are also adapting to it and Indigenous peoples are particularly affected by climate change; they are also adapting to it and
participating in high-level policy discussions regarding climate change responses. According to participating in high-level policy discussions regarding climate change responses. According to
the International Indigenous Peoples Forum on Climate Change (IIPFCC) established in 2008 as the International Indigenous Peoples Forum on Climate Change (IIPFCC) established in 2008 as
the caucus for Indigenous participants in the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change the caucus for Indigenous participants in the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change
processes, Indigenous peoples “are processes, Indigenous peoples “are
especiallyespecial y vulnerable to, and disproportionately impacted by, vulnerable to, and disproportionately impacted by,
climate change” and “play a critical role in climate change mitigation and adaptation through climate change” and “play a critical role in climate change mitigation and adaptation through
their historic and effective role as stewards of much of the world's remaining forests.”their historic and effective role as stewards of much of the world's remaining forests.”
3840 In the In the
2015 U.N. Paris Agreement, 2015 U.N. Paris Agreement,
article Article 7 establishes the “global goal on adaptation of enhancing 7 establishes the “global goal on adaptation of enhancing
adaptive capacity, strengthening resilience and reducing vulnerability to climate change,” which adaptive capacity, strengthening resilience and reducing vulnerability to climate change,” which
“should be based on and guided by the best available“should be based on and guided by the best available
science and, as appropriate, traditional science and, as appropriate, traditional
knowledge, knowledge of Indigenous peoples and local knowledge systems.”knowledge, knowledge of Indigenous peoples and local knowledge systems.”
3941
Global organizations are also consulting Indigenous peoples about managing the climate change
Global organizations are also consulting Indigenous peoples about managing the climate change
impact on biodiversity. The Convention on Biologicalimpact on biodiversity. The Convention on Biological
Diversity published the first draft of the Diversity published the first draft of the
Post-2020 Biodiversity Framework in July 2021, which includes the target to “ensure that Post-2020 Biodiversity Framework in July 2021, which includes the target to “ensure that
relevant knowledge, including the traditional knowledge, innovations and practices of Indigenous relevant knowledge, including the traditional knowledge, innovations and practices of Indigenous
peoples and local communities with their free, prior, and informed consent, guides decision-peoples and local communities with their free, prior, and informed consent, guides decision-
making for the effective management of biodiversity.”making for the effective management of biodiversity.”
4042 Such targets are Such targets are
generallygeneral y seen as critical seen as critical
given that 80% of the world’s biodiversity can be found within Indigenous territories.given that 80% of the world’s biodiversity can be found within Indigenous territories.
4143 Some of Some of
the key messages from the 2019 Global Assessment of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services the key messages from the 2019 Global Assessment of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services
include “nature is include “nature is
generallygeneral y declining less rapidly in Indigenous peoples’ land than in other lands, declining less rapidly in Indigenous peoples’ land than in other lands,
but is nevertheless declining, as is the knowledge of how to manage it.”42 The same is said of the decline in biodiversity.43 The report stresses that the “Indigenous and local knowledge systems are locally based, but regionally manifested and thus globally relevant.”44
36 37 ECLAC, 2014, p. 50. 38 Inter-American Commission of Human Rights, Inter-American Commission of Human Rights,
Indigenous Peoples, Communities of African Descent, Extractive
Industries, OEA/Ser.L/V/II,, OEA/Ser.L/V/II,
Doc. 47/15, December 31, 2015, at Doc. 47/15, December 31, 2015, at
http://www.oas.org/en/iachr/reports/pdfs/ExtractiveIndustries2016.pdfhttp://www.oas.org/en/iachr/reports/pdfs/ExtractiveIndustries2016.pdf
, p. 9. , p. 9.
3739 World Resources World Resources
Institute, Institute,
Undermining Rights: Indigenous Lands and Mining in the Amazon, October 2020, at , October 2020, at
https://files.wri.org/d8/s3fs-public/Report_Indigenous_Lands_and_Mining_in_the_Amazon_web_1.pdfhttps://files.wri.org/d8/s3fs-public/Report_Indigenous_Lands_and_Mining_in_the_Amazon_web_1.pdf
. .
3840 International Indigenous Peoples' Forum on Climate Change, "About the International Indigenous Peoples' Forum on International Indigenous Peoples' Forum on Climate Change, "About the International Indigenous Peoples' Forum on
Climate Change," accessedClimate Change," accessed
on Julyon July
26, 2021, at https://iipfcc.squarespace.com/who-are-we-1. 26, 2021, at https://iipfcc.squarespace.com/who-are-we-1.
3941 United Nations, “Paris Agreement,” 2015, at https://unfccc.int/sites/default/files/english_paris_agreement.pdf. United Nations, “Paris Agreement,” 2015, at https://unfccc.int/sites/default/files/english_paris_agreement.pdf.
4042 Convention on Biological Diversity, “First Draft of the Post-2020 Biodiversity Framework,” July 5, 2021, at Convention on Biological Diversity, “First Draft of the Post-2020 Biodiversity Framework,” July 5, 2021, at
https://www.cbd.int/doc/c/abb5/591f/2e46096d3f0330b08ce87a45/wg2020https://www.cbd.int/doc/c/abb5/591f/2e46096d3f0330b08ce87a45/wg2020
-03-03-en.pdf. -03-03-en.pdf.
4143 Linda Etchart, “ Linda Etchart, “
The role of Indigenous peoples in combating climate change,” Palgrave Communications, 3, article The role of Indigenous peoples in combating climate change,” Palgrave Communications, 3, article
no. 17085, (August 22, 2017). no. 17085, (August 22, 2017).
42 IPBES, 2019, p. 14. 43 IPBES, 2019, p. 31. 44 IPBES, 2019, p. 32.
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2423 Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
but is nevertheless declining, as is the knowledge of how to manage it.”44 The same is said of the decline in biodiversity.45 The report stresses that the “Indigenous and local knowledge systems are
local y based, but regional y manifested and thus global y relevant.”46
Table A-3 lists resources about Indigenous peoples’ lands, natural resources, and climate change lists resources about Indigenous peoples’ lands, natural resources, and climate change
in Latin America. While the titles may not exclusively focus on Indigenous peoples, the in Latin America. While the titles may not exclusively focus on Indigenous peoples, the
industries’ impact on Indigenous people is a part of the analysis of each resource. industries’ impact on Indigenous people is a part of the analysis of each resource.
Human Rights and Multilateral Instruments
Various international human rights mechanisms are designed to protect the rights of Indigenous Various international human rights mechanisms are designed to protect the rights of Indigenous
peoples of Latin America and the peoples of Latin America and the
Caribbean.Caribbean. Table 3 identifies those countries that have ratified identifies those countries that have ratified
or voted in favor of the following three multilateralor voted in favor of the following three multilateral
instruments on Indigenous peoples’ rights:instruments on Indigenous peoples’ rights:
International Labor Organization’s Indigenous and Tribal Peoples
Convention, 1989 (No. 169).4547 The convention includes sections on land; The convention includes sections on land;
recruitment and conditions of employment; vocational training, handicrafts and recruitment and conditions of employment; vocational training, handicrafts and
rural industries; and social security and health; education and means of rural industries; and social security and health; education and means of
communication. communication.
United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
(UNDRIP).4648 The 2007 declaration covers such topics as self-determination or The 2007 declaration covers such topics as self-determination or
autonomy; land and environment; employment; religion; language and media; autonomy; land and environment; employment; religion; language and media;
education; discrimination and violence; and health. education; discrimination and violence; and health.
American Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (ADRIP).4749 The The
2016 declaration approved by the Organization of American States includes 2016 declaration approved by the Organization of American States includes
sections on human and collective rights; cultural identity; organizational and sections on human and collective rights; cultural identity; organizational and
political rights; and social, economic and property rights. political rights; and social, economic and property rights.
Table 3. Latin America and Multilateral Instruments on Indigenous Peoples’ Rights
Voted in favor of
Voted in favor of
Country
Ratified ILO No. 169a
adopting UNDRIP
adopting ADRIP
Argentina
Argentina
X
X
X
X
X
X
Belize
Belize
--
--
X
X
X
X
Bolivia
Bolivia
X
X
X
X
X
X
Brazil
Brazil
X
X
X
X
X
X
Chile
Chile
X
X
X
X
X
X
Colombia
X
Xb
Xc
Costa Rica
X
X
X
Ecuador
X
X
X
El Salvador
--
X
X
Guatemala
X
X
X
45
44 IPBES, 2019, p. 14. 45 IPBES, 2019, p. 31. 46 IPBES, 2019, p. 32. 47 International Labor Organization, “Indigenous and International Labor Organization, “Indigenous and
TribalT ribal Peoples Convention, 1989 (No. 169),” 1989, at Peoples Convention, 1989 (No. 169),” 1989, at
https://www.ilo.org/dyn/normlex/en/f?p=NORMLEXPUB:12100:0::NO::P12100_ILO_CODE:C169https://www.ilo.org/dyn/normlex/en/f?p=NORMLEXPUB:12100:0::NO::P12100_ILO_CODE:C169
. 48.
46 United Nations, “United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples,” September 13, 2007, at United Nations, “United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples,” September 13, 2007, at
https://www.un.org/development/desa/Indigenouspeoples/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2018/11/UNDRIP_E_web.pdfhttps://www.un.org/development/desa/Indigenouspeoples/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2018/11/UNDRIP_E_web.pdf
. .
4749 Organization of American States, “American Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples,” June 15, 2016, at Organization of American States, “American Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples,” June 15, 2016, at
https://www.oas.org/en/sare/documents/DecAmIND.pdf. For more information on the Organization of American https://www.oas.org/en/sare/documents/DecAmIND.pdf. For more information on the Organization of American
States, seeStates, see
CRS CRS Report R42639, Report R42639,
Organization of AmericanAm erican States: Background and Issues for Congress, by Peter J. , by Peter J.
Meyer. Meyer.
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3023 link to page link to page
2523 link to page 30 Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
Voted in favor of
Voted in favor of
Country
Ratified ILO No. 169a
adopting UNDRIP
adopting ADRIP
Colombia
X
Xb
Xc
Costa Rica
X
X
X
Ecuador
X
X
X
El Salvador
--
X
X
Guatemala
X
X
X
ADRIP
Guyana Guyana
--
--
X
X
X
X
Honduras
Honduras
X
X
X
X
X
X
Jamaica
Jamaica
--
--
X
X
X
X
Mexico
Mexico
X
X
X
X
X
X
Nicaragua
Nicaragua
X
X
X
X
X
X
Panama
Panama
--
--
X
X
X
X
Paraguay
Paraguay
X
X
X
X
X
X
Peru
Peru
X
X
X
X
X
X
Suriname
Suriname
--
--
X
X
X
X
Uruguay
Uruguay
--
--
X
X
X
X
Venezuela
Venezuela
X
X
X
X
X
X
Sources: CompiledCompiled
by CRS using the fol owing sources:by CRS using the fol owing sources:
ILO’sILO’s
web page “Ratifications of C169 - Indigenous and web page “Ratifications of C169 - Indigenous and
Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989 (No. 169);” the U.N. web page “United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989 (No. 169);” the U.N. web page “United Nations Declaration on the Rights of
Indigenous People;” and the OAS’Indigenous People;” and the OAS’
official publication of ADRIP. official publication of ADRIP.
Notes: a. International Labor Organization, “Ratifications of C169 - Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989 a. International Labor Organization, “Ratifications of C169 - Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989
(No. 169),” at
(No. 169),” at
https://www.ilo.org/dyn/normlex/en/f?p=1000:11300:0: NO:11300:P11300_INSTRUMENT_ID:312314https://www.ilo.org/dyn/normlex/en/f?p=1000:11300:0: NO:11300:P11300_INSTRUMENT_ID:312314
. .
b. From
b. From
the region, only Colombia abstained from the vote. See U.N, Department of Economic and Social the region, only Colombia abstained from the vote. See U.N, Department of Economic and Social
Affairs,
Affairs,
“United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People,” September“United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People,” September
13, 2007, at 13, 2007, at
https://www.un.org/development/desa/Indigenouspeoples/declaration-on-the-rights-of-Indigenous-https://www.un.org/development/desa/Indigenouspeoples/declaration-on-the-rights-of-Indigenous-
peoples.html. peoples.html.
c. In the footnotes, Colombia
c. In the footnotes, Colombia
“breaks with consensus” on paragraphs within Articles“breaks with consensus” on paragraphs within Articles
XXIII, XXIX, XXIII, XXIX,
anda nd XXX. XXX.
See Organization of American
See Organization of American
States, “AmericanStates, “American
Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples,” June 15, Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples,” June 15,
2016, at https://www.oas.org/en/sare/documents/DecAmIND.pdf. 2016, at https://www.oas.org/en/sare/documents/DecAmIND.pdf.
The United Nations has a Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues and in 2001 created the Special
The United Nations has a Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues and in 2001 created the Special
Rapporteurship on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which promote the rights of Indigenous Rapporteurship on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which promote the rights of Indigenous
peoples across the globe.peoples across the globe.
4850 In 1990, the Organization of American States created the In 1990, the Organization of American States created the
Rapporteurship on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples to promote the rights of Indigenous peoples Rapporteurship on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples to promote the rights of Indigenous peoples
throughout the Western Hemisphere.throughout the Western Hemisphere.
4951 Table A-4 provides additional resources about the work of provides additional resources about the work of
international organizations with Indigenous peoples.
50 U.N. Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights, “ Special Rapporteur on the rights of Indigenous peoples,” at https://www.ohchr.org/EN/Issues/IPeoples/SRIndigenousPeoples/Pages/SRIPeoplesIndex.aspx .
51 Organization of American States, “ Rapporteurship on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples,” at http://www.oas.org/en/iachr/Indigenous/.
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international organizations with Indigenous peoples.
In a 2000 report, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) wrote “concern for
In a 2000 report, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) wrote “concern for
the human rights of Indigenous peoples and their members has been a constant feature in the the human rights of Indigenous peoples and their members has been a constant feature in the
work of the Commission.”work of the Commission.”
5052 The IACHR has tracked its work involving Indigenous peoples. It The IACHR has tracked its work involving Indigenous peoples. It
hosts multiple sessions per year to hold hearings regarding human rights issues affecting a hosts multiple sessions per year to hold hearings regarding human rights issues affecting a
particular country or subregion of the Western Hemisphere. One of the categories for hearings is particular country or subregion of the Western Hemisphere. One of the categories for hearings is
the rights of Indigenous peoplesthe rights of Indigenous peoples
. Table 4 shows the number of IACHR events by country shows the number of IACHR events by country
48 U.N. Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights, “Special Rapporteur on the rights of Indigenous peoples,” at https://www.ohchr.org/EN/Issues/IPeoples/SRIndigenousPeoples/Pages/SRIPeoplesIndex.aspx.
49 Organization of American States, “Rapporteurship on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples,” at http://www.oas.org/en/iachr/Indigenous/.
50 Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, The Human Rights Situation of the Indigenous People in the
Americas, OEA/Ser.L/V/II.108, Doc. 62, October 20, 2000, at http://www.cidh.org/Indigenas/TOC.htm.
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involving
involving Indigenous peoples’ rights. It also shows the number legal cases brought by Indigenous Indigenous peoples’ rights. It also shows the number legal cases brought by Indigenous
peoples against countries in the Inter-American Court of Human Rights. peoples against countries in the Inter-American Court of Human Rights.
Table 4. Human Rights Events and Legal Cases about the Rights of Indigenous
Peoples in the Inter-American System 1996-2020
Country
Events on the Rights
Legal Cases brought
Country
of Indigenous Peoples
by Indigenous Peoples
Colombia
Colombia
27
27
2
2
Peru
Peru
22
22
0
0
Guatemala
Guatemala
18
18
2
2
Ecuador
Ecuador
14
14
2
2
Mexico
Mexico
13
13
1
1
Brazil
Brazil
12
12
2
2
Nicaragua
Nicaragua
9
9
2
2
Chile
Chile
9
9
2
2
Argentina
Argentina
8
8
2
2
Panama
Panama
8
8
1
1
Bolivia
Bolivia
8
8
0
0
Honduras
Honduras
7
7
2
2
Venezuela
Venezuela
5
5
1
1
Costa Rica
Costa Rica
4
4
0
0
Paraguay
Paraguay
3
3
2
2
Belize
Belize
2
2
1
1
Suriname
Suriname
1
1
2
2
Guyana
Guyana
1
1
0
0
Region
Region
ala
34
34
N/A
N/A
Source: Table created by CRS using available data from the IACHR from sessionsTable created by CRS using available data from the IACHR from sessions
91-178 (February 1996-91-178 (February 1996-
DecemberDecember
2020). The first column data comes2020). The first column data comes
from the webpage “Hearings by Topic: Rights of Indigenous from the webpage “Hearings by Topic: Rights of Indigenous
Peoples” and the second column data comesPeoples” and the second column data comes
from the webpage “Hearings by Topic: Petitions and Cases.”from the webpage “Hearings by Topic: Petitions and Cases.”
Notes: IACHR events include topical hearings, petitions, and precautionary measures,IACHR events include topical hearings, petitions, and precautionary measures,
which may or may not be which may or may not be
related to a legal case. Legal cases receiverelated to a legal case. Legal cases receive
an identification number and are counted only once no matter how an identification number and are counted only once no matter how
many events are associated with it. Information is not available for many events are associated with it. Information is not available for
all al sessions,sessions,
particularly before 1996. particularly before 1996.
a. The IACHR uses the regional category for hearings that span multiple countries. Wherea. The IACHR uses the regional category for hearings that span multiple countries. Where
countries were countries were
named along with the tag “regional,” the hearing was counted for
named along with the tag “regional,” the hearing was counted for
all al entities tagged.
52 Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, The Human Rights Situation of the Indigenous People in the Am ericas, OEA/Ser.L/V/II.108, Doc. 62, October 20, 2000, at http://www.cidh.org/Indigenas/T OC.htm.
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In the appendix,entities tagged.
In the appendix, Table A-5 lists publications that document various human rights issues lists publications that document various human rights issues
confronting Indigenous peoples. CRS also publishes a number of reports with country-specific confronting Indigenous peoples. CRS also publishes a number of reports with country-specific
information on Indigenous peoples’ human rights issues.information on Indigenous peoples’ human rights issues.
51
51 See CRS In Focus 53
53 See CRS In Focus IF11325, IF11325,
Bolivia: An Overview, by Clare Ribando, by Clare Ribando
Seelke;Seelke;
CRS CRS Report R43813, Report R43813,
Colombia:
Background and U.S. Relations, by June S., by June S.
Beittel;CRSBeittel;CRS
In Focus IF11218, In Focus IF11218,
Ecuador: An Overview, by June, by June
S. S. Beittel; Beittel;
CRSCRS
Report R42580, Report R42580,
GuatemalaGuatem ala: Political and SocioeconomicSocioeconom ic Conditions and U.S . Relations, by Maureen , by Maureen
TaftT aft --
Morales; CRSMorales; CRS
Report RL34027, Report RL34027,
Honduras: Background and U.S. Relations, by Peter J. Meyer; CRS, by Peter J. Meyer; CRS
Report R42917, Report R42917,
Mexico: Background and U.S. Relations, by Clare Ribando, by Clare Ribando
Seelke;Seelke;
and CRSand CRS
Report R44841, Report R44841,
Venezuela: Background
and U.S. Relations, coordinated by Clare Ribando, coordinated by Clare Ribando
Seelke. Seelke.
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1312 Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
Appendix A. Data Sources and Resources Lists
Below are notes on the data sources most consulted for this report followed by resource lists Below are notes on the data sources most consulted for this report followed by resource lists
regarding Indigenous languages; socioeconomics; land, natural resources and climate change; regarding Indigenous languages; socioeconomics; land, natural resources and climate change;
international organizations; and human rights. international organizations; and human rights.
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and
Fundación para la Educación en Contextos
de Multilingüismo y Pluriculturalidad (the Foundation for Education in Multilingual (the Foundation for Education in Multilingual
and and
Multicultural Contexts or FUNPROEIB) gathered data in 21 Latin American and Caribbean Multicultural Contexts or FUNPROEIB) gathered data in 21 Latin American and Caribbean
countries in 2009 for its report in two volumes titled countries in 2009 for its report in two volumes titled
Atlas Sociolingüístico de Pueblos Indígenas
en América Latina. The report notes the limitations of using national censuses.. The report notes the limitations of using national censuses.
52 54
In 2014, the United Nations’ Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean
In 2014, the United Nations’ Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean
(ECLAC)(ECLAC)
collected population data from 17 Latin American countries using national censuses for collected population data from 17 Latin American countries using national censuses for
Guaranteeing Indigenous People’s Rights in Latin America: Progress in the Past Decade and
Remaining Challenges. The report notes that most countries ask people to self-identify as . The report notes that most countries ask people to self-identify as
Indigenous with the exception of Peru, which asks people if they speak an Indigenous language.Indigenous with the exception of Peru, which asks people if they speak an Indigenous language.
53 55
In 2015, the World Bank published data from 16 countries using national censuses and household
In 2015, the World Bank published data from 16 countries using national censuses and household
surveys in surveys in
Indigenous Latin America in the Twenty-First Century: the First Decade..
5456 The report The report
noted that the definition of Indigenous has become increasingly controversial and “underscores noted that the definition of Indigenous has become increasingly controversial and “underscores
the complexity of identifying Indigenous people across the region and argues that the conditions the complexity of identifying Indigenous people across the region and argues that the conditions
of indigeneity vary over time and are, in some cases, context- and country-specific.”of indigeneity vary over time and are, in some cases, context- and country-specific.”
5557
In 2020, ECLAC and the Development Fund for the Indigenous Peoples of Latin America and the
In 2020, ECLAC and the Development Fund for the Indigenous Peoples of Latin America and the
Caribbean (Fondo para el Desarrollo de los Pueblos Indígenas de América Latina y el Caribe) Caribbean (Fondo para el Desarrollo de los Pueblos Indígenas de América Latina y el Caribe)
published published
Los pueblos indígenas de América Latina - Abya Yala y la Agenda 2030 para el
Desarrollo Sostenible: tensiones y desafíos desde una perspectiva territorial. The report’s focus . The report’s focus
on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals notes the advances in including on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals notes the advances in including
Indigenous peoples’ in official statistics and lists data from 17 national censuses. Indigenous peoples’ in official statistics and lists data from 17 national censuses.
The 2021 edition of
The 2021 edition of
Ethnologue counted languages for each country and divided them into counted languages for each country and divided them into
Indigenous and non-Indigenous categories. Indigenous languages figures were used iIndigenous and non-Indigenous categories. Indigenous languages figures were used i
n Table 2 as as
non-Indigenous is defined as “a language that did not originate in the country, but which is now non-Indigenous is defined as “a language that did not originate in the country, but which is now
established there either as a result of its longstanding presence or because of established there either as a result of its longstanding presence or because of
institutionallyinstitutional y supported use and recognition.”supported use and recognition.”
5658 Only living languages were included in the count, not Only living languages were included in the count, not
languages classified as extinct. languages classified as extinct.
Ethnologue’s “about” section provides details on the “about” section provides details on the
methodology, language names, and status of usage. methodology, language names, and status of usage.
In 2020, the International Labor Organization’s
In 2020, the International Labor Organization’s
Implementing the ILO Indigenous and Tribal
Peoples Convention No. 169 Towards an Inclusive, Sustainable and Just Future presented multi-presented multi-
faceted statistics on the working conditions of Indigenous peoples with a special emphasis on faceted statistics on the working conditions of Indigenous peoples with a special emphasis on
52
54 UNICEF, 2009. pp. vii-ix. UNICEF, 2009. pp. vii-ix.
5355 ECLAC, 2014, pp. 34-36. ECLAC, 2014, pp. 34-36.
5456 IBRD IBRD
and World Bank, 2015, pp. 6, 9. and World Bank, 2015, pp. 6, 9.
5557 Ibid. Ibid.
56 58 Gary F. Simons Gary F. Simons
(editor), “Language Information,” (editor), “Language Information,”
Ethnologue: Languages of the World. Twenty-third edition, SIL , SIL
International, 2020, at https://www.ethnologue.com/about/language-info. International, 2020, at https://www.ethnologue.com/about/language-info.
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gendered dimensions of labor. The report noted the “continued ‘invisibility’ of Indigenous and
gendered dimensions of labor. The report noted the “continued ‘invisibility’ of Indigenous and
tribal peoples in official data and statistics.”tribal peoples in official data and statistics.”
5759 The data provided is global and regional only. The data provided is global and regional only.
The World Bank’s LAC Equity Lab provides national data on poverty, access to services,
The World Bank’s LAC Equity Lab provides national data on poverty, access to services,
education and labor (last updated in July 2021). Some subnational data is also availableeducation and labor (last updated in July 2021). Some subnational data is also available
although although
not covered in this report. The World Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported not covered in this report. The World Bank notes that ethnic identity is based on self-reported
data. Statistics may vary from official statistics reported by governments as the World Bank uses data. Statistics may vary from official statistics reported by governments as the World Bank uses
SEDLAC, “a regional data harmonization effort that increases cross-country comparability.”SEDLAC, “a regional data harmonization effort that increases cross-country comparability.”
58 60
The web page of the Inter-American Commission of Human Rights “Sessions by Topic: Rights of
The web page of the Inter-American Commission of Human Rights “Sessions by Topic: Rights of
Indigenous Peoples” provides detailed information on hearings and court cases related to Indigenous Peoples” provides detailed information on hearings and court cases related to
Indigenous peoples’ rights.Indigenous peoples’ rights.
5961
For each table below, sources are listed in reverse chronological order with the year in
For each table below, sources are listed in reverse chronological order with the year in
parentheses following the title. Multipleparentheses following the title. Multiple
sources from the same year are listed sources from the same year are listed
alphabeticallyalphabetical y as as
are sources without a publication date, such as websites. Some sources are global, with a section are sources without a publication date, such as websites. Some sources are global, with a section
dedicated to Latin America. dedicated to Latin America.
Table A-1. Resources on Indigenous Languages in Latin America
Title (publication year)
Author
Resource Type
URL
Languages of the World,
Languages of the World,
Twenty-
David M. Eberhard, Gary
David M. Eberhard, Gary
F. Simons,
World
World
language encyclopedia with
fourth edition (2021)
and Charles D. Fennig (editors),
maps
language
http://www.ethnologue.co
Twenty-fourth edition
F. Simons, and Charles D.
encyclopedia with maps
m
(2021)
Fennig (editors), Ethnologue Ethnologue
Celebrating Indigenous
Celebrating Indigenous
Languages
Google
Google
Earth Earth
Interactive global website
Interactive global website
https://earth.google.com/
Languages (2019)
web/data=CiQSIhIgYTY1Y2U1NTk3MzE4MTFlOTkzN2RjN2JkNTNhNDc1ZGI(2019)
International Year of
International Year of
Indigenous
United Nations
United Nations
Website
Website
with global map, summary
Languages (2019)
report and with global map,
https://en.iyil2019.org/
Indigenous Languages
summary report and
(2019)
more more
Atlas Sociolingüístico
Atlas Sociolingüístico
de de Pueblos
UNICEF and FUNPROEIB
UNICEF and FUNPROEIB
Andes
Regional report in Spanish only
Indígenas en América Latina, Volúmen I and Volúmen II (2009)
Source: Compiled by CRS.
Table A-2. Resources on Indigenous Socioeconomics
Title (publication year)
Author
Resource Type
Linking Indigenous Communities
Organization for Economic Regional report in Spanish http://www.funproeibande
Pueblos Indígenas en
Andes
only
s.org/wp-
América Latina,
content/uploads/2018/12/
Volúmenes I and II (2009)
Atlas-tomo_1.pdf; http://www.funproeibandes.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Atlas-tomo_2.pdf
Source: Compiled by CRS.
57 ILO, 2020, p. 44. 58 World Bank’s LAC Equity Lab, “Overview,” accessed July 27, 2021, at https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/poverty/lac-equity-lab1
59 Inter-American Commission of Human Rights, “Sessions by Topic: Rights of Indigenous Peoples,” accessed July 27, 2021, at https://www.oas.org/es/cidh/audiencias/TopicsList.aspx?Lang=en&Topic=17
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Table A-2. Resources on Indigenous Socioeconomics
Title
Author
Resource Type
URL
Linking Indigenous
Organization for
Report on OECD
https://www.oecd-
Communities with
Economic Cooperation
member countries
ilibrary.org/urban-rural-
Regional Development
and Development
including Chile and
and-regional-
(2019)
Mexico with some
development/linking-
information on non-
Indigenous-communities-
member countries
with-regional-development_97353723-en
State of the world`s
Report on OECD member
with Regional Development (2019)
Cooperation and Development
countries including Chile and Mexico with some information on non-member countries
State of the world’s Indigenous
United Nations
Global report with a chapter on
peoples: Education, 3rd volume
Latin America and the Caribbean
(2017)
Indigenous Latin America in the
United Nations
Global report with a
http://www.un.org/develo
Indigenous peoples:
chapter on Latin America
pment/desa/Indigenouspe
Education, 3rd volume
and the Caribbean
oples/wp-
(2017)
content/uploads/sites/19/2017/12/State-of-Worlds-Indigenous-Peoples_III_WEB2018.pdf
Indigenous Latin America
International Bank for
International Bank for
Regional report covers
Regional report covers
http://documents.worldba
in the twenty-statistical
twenty-first century: the first first
Reconstruction and
Reconstruction and
statistical numbers,
nk.org/curated/en/2016/0
century: the first decade
Development and the
migration, development,
2/24863854/Indigenous-
(2015)
World Bank
poverty, and education
latin-america-twenty-first-century-first-decade
The state of the world´s
United Nations
Global report with a
https://www.un.org/esa/so
Indigenous people:
chapter on Latin America
cdev/unpfi /documents/20
Indigenous people´s
and the Caribbean
16/Docs-
access to health services,
updates/SOWIP_Health.p
Development
numbers, migration, development,
decade (2015)
and the World Bank
poverty, and education
59 ILO, 2020, p. 44. 60 World Bank’s LAC Equity Lab, “Overview,” accessed July 27, 2021, at https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/poverty/lac-equity-lab1 61 Inter-American Commission of Human Rights, “Sessions by T opic: Rights of Indigenous Peoples,” accessed July 27, 2021, at https://www.oas.org/es/cidh/audiencias/T opicsList.aspx?Lang=en&T opic=17
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Title (publication year)
Author
Resource Type
State of the world´s Indigenous
United Nations
Global report with a chapter on
people: Indigenous people´s access
Latin America and the Caribbean
to health services, 2nd volume (2015) 2nd volume (2015)
df
Indigenous PeoplesIndigenous Peoples
U.S. Agency for
U.S. Agency for
International
Website
Website
with policy, blog, with policy, blog,
https://www.usaid.gov/Indi
International
and more
genous-peoples
Developmentand
Development
more
LAC Equity Lab: A
LAC Equity Lab: A
Platform for
World
World
Bank Bank
Regional economic data
Regional economic data
http://www.worldbank.or
Platform for Poverty and
and maps
g/en/topic/poverty/lac-
Inequality Analysis
equity-lab1 and maps
Poverty and Inequality Analysis
Source: CompiledCompiled
by CRS. by CRS.
Table A-3. Resources on Indigenous Land, Natural Resources, and Climate Change in
Latin America
Title (publication year)
Author
Resource Type
Amazon Assessment Report 2021
Science Panel for the Amazon
Global report
(2021)
Forest governance by indigenous
United Nations Food and
Regional report
and tribal peoples. An opportunity
Agriculture Organization and the
for climate action in Latin America
Fund for the Development of the
and the Caribbean (2021)
Indigenous Peoples of Latina America and the Caribbean
State of the World´s Indigenous
United Nations
Global report
Peoples: Rights to Lands, Territories and Resources, 5th volume (2021)
Environmental Governance
Inter-American Development Bank
Regional report
Indicators for Latin America and the and World Justice Project Caribbean (2020)
Undermining Rights: Indigenous
World Resources Institute
Regional report
Lands and Mining in the Amazon (2020)
Authorized to Steal: Organized
Author
Resource Type
URL
The State of the World´s
United Nations
Global report
https://www.un.org/devel
Indigenous Peoples: Rights
opment/desa/Indigenousp
to Lands, Territories, and
eoples/wp-
Resources, 5th volume
content/uploads/sites/19/2
(2021)
021/03/State-of-Worlds-Indigenous-Peoples-Vol-V-Final.pdf
Forest Governance by
United Nations Food and
Regional report
http://www.fao.org/3/cb29
Indigenous and Tribal
Agriculture Organization
53en/cb2953en.pdf
People. An Opportunity
and the Fund for the
for Climate Action in
Development of the
Latin America and the
Indigenous Peoples of
Caribbean (2021)
Latina America and the Caribbean
Congressional Research Service
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Title
Author
Resource Type
URL
Environmental
Inter-American
Regional report
https://worldjusticeprojec
Governance Indicators in
Development Bank and
t.org/our-work/research-
Latin America and the
World Justice Project
and-data/environmental-
Caribbean (2020)
governance-indicators-latin-america-and-caribbean
Undermining Rights:
World Resources Insitute
Regional report
https://files.wri.org/d8/s3fs
Indigenous Lands and
-
Mining in the Amazon
public/Report_Indigenous
(2020)
_Lands_and_Mining_in_the_Amazon_web_1.pdf
Authorized to Steal:
Center for International
Regional report covers
https://www.ciel.org/wp-
Organized Crime
Environmental Law
government oversight,
content/uploads/2019/07/
Networks Launder Il egal
laundering, supply chains
Authorized-to-Steal-July-
Timber from the Peruvian
and recommendations
2019.pdf
Amazon (2019)
Blood Gold in the
Jon Lee Anderson, The
Regional long article
https://www.newyorker.c
Brazilian Rain Forest
New Yorker
om/magazine/2019/11/11/
(2019)
blood-gold-in-the-brazilian-rain-forest
Global assessment report
Intergovernmental
Global report with
https://ipbes.net/global-
on biodiversity and
Science-Policy Platform
discussion of Indigenous
assessment-report-
ecosystem services (2019) on Biodiversity and
peoples integrated
biodiversity-ecosystem-
Ecosystem Services
throughout
services
Global Report on the
Joji Carino, Loreto
Center for International
Regional report covers government
Crime Networks Launder Il egal
Environmental Law
oversight, laundering, supply chains
Timber from the Peruvian Amazon
and recommendations
(2019)
Blood Gold in the Brazilian Rain
Jon Lee Anderson, The New
Regional long article
Forest (2019)
Yorker
Climate Change and Land: an IPCC
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate
Global report
Special Report on climate change,
Change
desertification, land degradation, sustainable land management, food security, and greenhouse gas fluxes in terrestrial ecosystems (2019)
Global Assessment Report on
Intergovernmental Science-Policy
Global report with discussion of
Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services
Platform on Biodiversity and
Indigenous peoples integrated
(2019)
Ecosystem Services
throughout
Global Report on the Situation of
Joji Carino, Loreto Tamayo,
Global report with a section on
Lands, Territories and Resources of
Indigenous Peoples Major Group
Latin America and the Caribbean
Indigenous Peoples (2019)
for Sustainable Development
Congressional Research Service
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Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
Title (publication year)
Author
Resource Type
Rainforest Mafias: How Violence
Human Rights Watch
Report on Brazilian public and
and Impunity Fuel Deforestation in
private actors, climate change and
Brazil’s Amazon (2019)
public policy
Situation of Human Rights of the
Inter-American Commission on
Regional report examines threats to
Indigenous and Tribal Peoples of
Human Rights
Indigenous peoples, chal enges to
the Pan-
Global report with a
https://www.iwgia.org/ima
Situation of Lands,
Tamayo, Indigenous
section on Latin America
ges/documents/briefings/I
Territories and Resources Peoples Major Group for
and the Caribbean
PMG%20Global%20Repor
of Indigenous Peoples
Sustainable Development
t%20FINAL.pdf
(2019)
Rainforest Mafias: How
Human Rights Watch
Report on Brazilian public
https://www.hrw.org/repo
Violence and Impunity
and private actors, climate rt/2019/09/17/rainforest-
Fuel Deforestation in
change and public policy
mafias/how-violence-and-
Brazil’s Amazon (2019)
impunity-fuel-deforestation-brazils-amazon
Situation of Human Rights Inter-American
Regional report examines
http://www.oas.org/en/iac
of the Indigenous and
Commission on Human
threats to Indigenous
hr/reports/pdfs/Panamazo
Tribal Peoples of the Pan-
Rights
peoples, challenges to
nia2019-en.pdf
Amazon Region (2019) Amazon Region (2019)
their rights and
their rights and
recommendations recommendations
At a Crossroads:
At a Crossroads:
Consequential
Rights and Resources
Rights and Resources
Initiative
Global report
Trends in Recognition of Community-Based Forest Tenure from 2002-2017 (2018)
Global report
https://rightsandresources
Consequential Trends in
Initiative
.org/wp-
Recognition of
content/uploads/2019/03/
Community-Based Forest
At-A-
Tenure from 2002-2017
Crossroads_RRI_Nov-
(2018)
2018.pdf
Cornered by Protected
Cornered by Protected
Victoria Tauli-Corpuz
Victoria Tauli-Corpuz
, Janis Alcorn, ,
Website
Website
with global with global
https://www.corneredbypresources
Areas
Areas
(2018)
Janis Alcorn, and Augusta
resources including
as.com/
Molnar
(2018)
and Augusta Molnar
including report with case studies report with case studies
of of
Panama and Peru
Looted Amazon (2018)
Infoamazonia and Amazon
Regional report covering mercury,
Georeferenced Socio-
protected areas, Indigenous
Environmental Information
territories and conflicts
Network
Who Owns the World’s Land? A
Rights and Resources Initiative
Global report with regional and
global baseline of formal y
country statistics
recognized indigenous and community land rights (2015)
Amazonía Socioambiental
Amazon Geo-Referenced Socio-
Website Panama and Peru
Congressional Research Service
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Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
Title
Author
Resource Type
URL
Looted Amazon (2018)
Infoamazonia and Amazon Regional report covering
https://il egalmining.amazo
Georeferenced Socio-
mercury, protected areas,
niasocioambiental.org/?lan
Environmental
Indigenous territories and
g=en
Information Network
conflicts
Amazonía Socioambiental
Amazon Geo-Referenced
Website with maps about
https://www.amazoniasoci
Socio-Environmental
the with maps about the
Environmental Information
Amazon’s protected Amazon’s protected
oambiental.org/en/maps/
Information areas,
Network,Network,
a
areas, Indigenous
a consortium of civil consortium of civil
society
Indigenous territories,territories,
deforestation deforestation
organizations from several and more
society organizations from several
and more (English, (English,
Spanish,
countries countries
Spanish, Portuguese) Portuguese)
EcoCrime
EcoCrime
Data Data
Igarapé Institute and
Igarapé Institute and
InSight Crime
Mapping tool for environmental crime in
Mapping tool for
https://ecocrime.igarape.o
InSight Crime
environmental crime in
rg.br/
the Amazon including the Amazon including
deforestation,deforestation,
il egal il egal
mining,mining,
and cattle, soy, and cattle, soy,
and oil activity and oil activity
Environmental Justice
Environmental Justice
Atlas
Autonomous University
Autonomous University
of
Global map with
Global map with
https://ejatlas.org/
Atlas
of information about
Barcelona’sBarcelona’s
Institute of
level of Institute of
information about level of
Environmental Science
conflict, communities, conflict, communities,
and TechnologyEnvironmental Science and
commodities,
commodities,
companies,companies,
and and
Technology
governmental governmental
agencies involved, agencies involved,
and reference and reference links links
Indigenous peoples and
Indigenous peoples and
food
FAO Regional Office for
FAO Regional Office for
Latin
Website
Website
links to additional regional
security in Latin America and the
America links to
http://www.fao.org/americ
food security in Latin
Latin America and the
additional regional
as/priorities/pueblos-
America and the
and the Caribbean Caribbean
documents
documents
indigenas/en/
Caribbean Caribbean
International Indigenous
International Indigenous
Peoples’
United Nations
United Nations
Website
Website
for global caucus for global caucus
https://iipfcc.squarespace.c
Peoples Forum on
of of
Forum on Climate Change
Indigenous peoples Indigenous peoples
om/home
Climate Change
participating in United participating in United
Nations Framework Nations Framework
Convention on ClimateConvention on Climate
Change Change
Landmark Map
Landmark Map
World
World
Resources Resources
Institute,
Global maps, data, country profiles
International
Global maps, data,
https://www.landmarkmap
Institute, International
country profiles
.org/
Land Coalition and others Land Coalition and others
Source: CompiledCompiled
by CRS.
by CRS.
Congressional Research Service
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Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
Table A-4. Resources on International Organizations and Indigenous Peoples in Latin
America
Title (publication year)
Author
Resource Type
URL
Implementing the ILO
Implementing the ILO
Indigenous
International Labor
International Labor
Organization
Global report on income and
and Tribal Peoples Convention No.
employment with regional statistics
169 Towards an inclusive,
and a
Global report on income
https://www.ilo.org/wcms
Indigenous and Tribal
Organization
and employment with
p5/groups/public/---
Peoples Convention No.
regional statistics and a
dgreports/---dcomm/---
169 Towards an Inclusive,
focus on gender
publ/documents/publicatio
Sustainable and Just
differences
n/wcms_735607.pdf
Future (2020)
Congressional Research Service
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Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
Title
Author
Resource Type
URL
The state of the world´s focus on gender differences
sustainable and just future (2020)
State of the world´s Indigenous
United Nations
United Nations
Global report covers
Global report covers
https://social.un.org/unpfi /
Indigenous peoples:
Declaration
sowip-vol4-web.pdf
Declaration
peoples: Implementing the United Implementing the United
implementation,
implementation,
official official statistics,
Nations Declaration
Nations Declaration
on the Rights
chal enges and priorities
of Indigenous Peoples, on
statistics, challenges and
the Rights of Indigenous
priorities
Peoples, 4th volume 4th volume
(2019) (2019)
Indigenous Peoples and
Indigenous Peoples and
Local
World Intel ectual Property
World Intellectual
Website
Website
provides access provides access
https://www.wipo.int/tk/e
Local Communities Portal
Property Organization
to global publications and
n/Indigenous/
to global
Communities Portal
Organization
publications and events events
Indigenous Peoples
Indigenous Peoples
—OAS
Organization of AmericanOrganization of American
States
Website
Website
provides access provides access
http://www.oas.org/en/top
States
to the Rapporteurship on to the Rapporteurship on
ics/Indigenous_peoples.as
the Rights of Indigenous the Rights of Indigenous
p
Peoples of the Inter-Peoples of the Inter-
AmericanAmerican
Commission on Commission on Human Rights, SummitsHuman Rights, Summits
of of
the Americas, special the Americas, special
regional projectsregional projects
and and
more more
Indigenous and tribal
Indigenous and tribal
peoples
International Labor
International Labor
Organization
Website
Website
provides access provides access
https://www.ilo.org/global/
peoples
Organization
to global to global
projects, publications and supervision of conventions
Indigenous Peoples
United Nations’ Department of
Website projects,
topics/Indigenous-
publications and
tribal/lang--en/index.htm
supervision of conventions
United Nations for
United Nations’
Website provides access
https://www.un.org/devel
Indigenous Peoples
Department of Economic
to the global Permanent
opment/desa/Indigenousp
provides access to the
Economic and Social Affairs and Social Affairs
global Permanent Forum on Indigenous Forum on Indigenous
eoples/
Issues, the World Issues, the World
Conference on Indigenous Conference on Indigenous
Peoples, expert group Peoples, expert group
meetings,meetings,
the Special the Special
Rapporteur on the rights Rapporteur on the rights
of Indigenous peoples and of Indigenous peoples and
more more
Source: CompiledCompiled
by CRS. by CRS.
Table A-5. Resources on Indigenous Peoples’ Human Rights in Latin America
Title (publication year)
Author
Resource Type
URL
Front Line DefendersFront Line Defenders Global
Front Line
Front Line
Defenders
Global report about physical, digital,
Analysis 2020 (2021)
legal and social attacks against human rights defenders
Annual Report 2020/21: The State Defenders
Global report about
https://www.frontlinedefe
Global Analysis 2020
physical, digital, legal and
nders.org/sites/default/file
(2021)
social attacks against
s/fld_global_analysis_2020
human rights defenders
.pdf
Annual Report 2020/21:
Amnesty International
Global report, see
https://www.amnesty.org/
The State of the World’s
“Americas Regional
download/Documents/PO
Human Rights
Overview”
L1032022021ENGLISH.PDF
Human Rights in the
Amnesty International
Global report, see “Americas
of the World’s Human Rights
Regional Overview”
Human Rights in the Americas
Amnesty International
Amnesty International
Regional report with
Regional report with
https://www.amnesty.org/
Americas Annual Report
subsection on Indigenous
en/documents/amr01/135
subsection on
Annual Report 2019 (2020) 2019 (2020)
Indigenous peoples for each peoples for each
country
The country
3/2020/en/
Congressional Research Service
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Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
Title
Author
Resource Type
URL
Indigenous World 2021 Indigenous World 2021
International Work
International Work
Group for
Annual global reports since 1986
Indigenous Affairs
about developments affecting
Annual global reports
https://www.iwgia.org/en/
Group for Indigenous
since 1986 about
resources/Indigenous-
Affairs
developments affecting
world.html
Indigenous peoples, Indigenous peoples,
organized by country organized by country
Indigenous Women and
Indigenous Women and
Their
Inter-American
Inter-American
Commission on
Regional report with hearings,
Human Rights in the Americas
Human Rights
cases, thematic and country reports
(2017)
that
Regional report with
http://www.oas.org/en/iac
Their Human Rights in
Commission on Human
hearings, cases, thematic
hr/reports/pdfs/Indigenou
the Americas (2017)
Rights
and country reports that
sWomen.pdf
document violations of document violations of
the human rights of the human rights of
Indigenous women
Guaranteeing Indigenous
United Nations Economic
Regional report covers
https://repositorio.cepal.o
people’s rights in Latin
Commission for Latin
sociopolitical context,
rg/bitstream/handle/11362
America: Progress in the
America and the
territorial rights, and
/37051/4/S1420782_en.pd
past decade and remaining Caribbean
rights to well-being and
f
challenges (2014)
information
Business, Civic Freedoms
Business & Human Rights
Global database of attacks https://www.business-
& Human Rights
Resource Centre
on Indigenous women
Congressional Research Service
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Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
Title (publication year)
Author
Resource Type
Guaranteeing Indigenous people’s
United Nations Economic
Regional report covers
rights in Latin America: Progress in
Commission for Latin America and
sociopolitical context, territorial
the past decade and remaining
the Caribbean
rights, and rights to wel -being and
chal enges (2014)
information
Business, Civic Freedoms & Human
Business & Human Rights Resource
Global database of attacks on
Rights Defenders Portal
Centre
human rights human rights
humanrights.org/search-
Defenders Portal
defenders from 2015 defenders from 2015
to to
human-rights-defenders
present, which specifies present, which specifies
Indigenous victims Indigenous victims
Country Reports on
Country Reports on
Human Rights
U.S. State Department
U.S. State Department
Annual global reports
Annual global reports
https://www.state.gov/rep
Human Rights Practices
cover each country with a orts-bureau-of- cover each
Practices
country with a section section
“Discrimination, Societal Abuses, and Trafficking in Persons” that “Discrimination,
democracy-human-rights-
Societal Abuses, and
and-labor/country-
Trafficking in Persons”
reports-on-human-rights-
that includes Indigenous
practices/
includes Indigenous peoples peoples
Indigenous Navigator
Indigenous Navigator
Community-generated data, website Website and global database supported
Community-generated
Website and global
http://nav.Indigenousnavig
data, website supported
database
ator.com/
by the European Union by the European Union
Source: CompiledCompiled
by CRS. by CRS.
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
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link to page 34
link to page 34
Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
Appendix B. National Agencies of Indigenous
Affairs
Table B-1. Principal National Agencies Overseeing Indigenous Affairs
Country
Agency (parent agency, office)
Website
Argentina
Secretaría de Derechos Humanos,
https://www.argentina.gob.ar/derec
Instituto Nacional de Asuntos
hoshumanos/inai
Indígenas
Bolivia
Ministerio de Culturas,
https://www.minculturas.gob.bo/
Descolonización y Despatriarcalización
Brazil
Fundação Nacional do Índio;
http://www.funai.gov.br/
Ministério da Agricultura, Pecuária
e Abastecimento
http://www.agricultura.gov.br/
Chile
Ministerio de Desarrol o Social y
http://www.conadi.gob.cl/
Familia, Corporación Nacional de Desarrol o Indígena
Colombia
Ministerio del Interior, Dirección
https://www.mininterior.gov.co/misi
Parent Agency
Indigenous Affairs Agency
Argentina
Ministerio de Justicia y Derechos
Instituto Nacional de Asuntos
Humanos, Secretaría de Derechos
Indígenas
Humanos
Bolivia
Ministerio de Culturas, Descolonización y Despatriarcalización
Brazil
Ministério da Justiça e Segurança
Fundação Nacional do Índio
Pública
Ministério da Agricultura, Pecuária e Abastecimento
Chile
Ministerio de Desarrol o Social y
Corporación Nacional de
Familia
Desarrol o Indígena
Colombia
Ministerio del Interior
Dirección de Asuntos Indígenas, de Asuntos Indígenas,
ROM y Minorías
Costa Rica
Comisión Nacional de Asuntos Indígenas
Ecuador
ROM y
on/direccion-de-asuntos-indigenas-
Minorías
rom-y-minorias
Costa Rica
Comisión Nacional de Asuntos
http://www.conai.go.cr/
Indígenas
Ecuador
Consejo Nacional para la Igualdad
http://www.pueblosynacionalidades.
de Pueblos y Nacionalidades
gob.ec/
Consejo Nacional para la Igualdad de Pueblos y Nacionalidades
El Salvador
El Salvador
Ministerio
Ministerio
de Culturaa
Dirección General de Multiculturalidad
Guatemala
Ministerio Público
Secretaría de Pueblos IndígenasError! Reference source not found.
Guyana
Ministry of Amerindian Affairs
Honduras
Secretaría de Desarrol o e Inclusión
Dirección de Pueblos Indígenas y
Social
Afrohondureños
Mexico
Secretaría de Cultura
Instituto Nacional de los Pueblos Indígenas Instituto Nacional de Lenguas Indígenas
Nicaragua
Asamblea Nacional
Comisión de de Culturaa
https://www.cultura.gob.sv/marco-institucional/
Guatemala
Ministerio Público, Secretaría de
https://www.mp.gob.gt/nosotros/
Pueblos Indígenas
Guyana
Ministry of Amerindian Affairs
https://moipa.gov.gy/
Honduras
Secretaría de Desarrol o e Inclusión http://dinafroh.sedis.gob.hn/direccioSocial, Dirección de Pueblos
n-de-pueblos-indigenas-y-
Indígenas y Afrohondureños
afrohondurenos-dinafroh
Mexico
Instituto Nacional de los Pueblos
https://www.gob.mx/inpi
Indígenas; Secretaría de Cultura, Instituto Nacional de Lenguas Indígenas;
Nicaragua
Asamblea Nacional, Comisión de
http://legislacion.asamblea.gob.ni/Ta
Asuntos de los Asuntos de los
Pueblos Originarios, Afrodescendientes y Regímenes Autonómicos Comisión Nacional Pueblos Originarios,
blas%20Generales.nsf/InfoComision.
Afrodescendientes y Regímenes
xsp?documentId=70FB74CCEB9CB
Autonómicos; Comisión Nacional
64E0625838C004FC379&action=op
de Demarcación y Titulaciónde Demarcación y Titulación
enDocument
Panama
Panama
Ministerio
Ministerio
de Gobiernode Gobierno
y Justiciay Justicia
,
http://www.mingob.gob.pa/viceminis
Viceministerio de Asuntos
terio-asuntos-indigenas/
Indígenas; Ministerio de Salud,
http://www.minsa.gob.pa/direccion/
Dirección de Asuntos Sanitarios
direccion-de-asuntos-sanitarios-
Indígenas
indigenas
Viceministerio de Asuntos Indígenas
Ministerio de Salud
Dirección de Asuntos Sanitarios Indígenas
Paraguay
Presidencia de la República
Instituto Paraguayo del Indígena
Congressional Research Service
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Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
Paraguay
Presidencia de la República,
http://www.indi.gov.py/
Instituto Paraguayo del IndígenaCountry
Parent Agency
Indigenous Affairs Agency
Peru
Peru
Ministerio
Ministerio
de Salud
Dirección de Pueblos Indígenas u
Ministerio de Cultura
Originarios Base de de Salud, Dirección de
https://www.gob.pe/7662-
Pueblos Indígenas u Originarios;
ministerio-de-salud-organizacion-
Ministerio de Cultura, Base de
de-ministerio-de-salud
datos de Pueblos Indígenas datos de Pueblos Indígenas
u Originarios
Congressional Research Service
29
Indigenous Peoples in Latin America: Statistical Information
u
https://bdpi.cultura.gob.pe/index.php
Originarios
/
Uruguay
Uruguay
Ministerio
Ministerio
del Interiordel Interior
,
Área Étnico Racial (“Salir de la invisibilidad”)
Venezuela
Ministerio del Poder Popular para Área Étnico
https://www.minterior.gub.uy/index.
Racial
php?option=com_content&view=article&id=3447
Venezuela
Ministerio del Poder Popular para
http://www.minpi.gob.ve/
los Pueblos Indígenas los Pueblos Indígenas
Source: CompiledCompiled
by CRS. by CRS.
a. The Ministry of Culture mentionsa. The Ministry of Culture mentions
Indigenous peoples only in its list of responsibilitiesIndigenous peoples only in its list of responsibilities
“Ejercer la rectoría de “Ejercer la rectoría de
los procesos
los procesos
relacionados con el desarrol orelacionados con el desarrol o
socio cultural de los pueblos indígenas.”socio cultural de los pueblos indígenas.”
b. Found under the tab “Administrativo” towards the bottom of the webpage.
Author Information
Carla Y. Davis-Castro Carla Y. Davis-Castro
Research Librarian
Research Librarian
Disclaimer
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