Observation (CEACR) - adoptée 1995, publiée 83ème session CIT (1996)

The Committee notes with interest the Government's report. It notes with interest its continuing efforts to strengthen the recognition of the rights of the indigenous peoples of the country, in particular in the continuing process of demarcation of indigenous territories. The Committee also welcomes the increased attention to teaching indigenous peoples about their rights under the legislation in force, in order to empower them to defend their own interests. It also notes with interest the decisions of the Constitutional Court upholding the rights of the indigenous peoples, including their right to a separate and distinct identity. In addition, it notes the measures taken to recognize a special legal regime for indigenous peoples, taking into account their customary law. However, it has also noted indications of a diminution of the special attention given to indigenous communities in access to credit and marketing facilities, and hopes the Government will ensure that these communities are not disadvantaged in this respect.

These questions are being developed in more detail in a request being addressed directly to the Government.