Introduction

A closer look at the United Nations monitoring bodies, the statements during the working groups relevant to indigenous peoples and the reports of the UN Special Rapporteurs reveals only the tip of the iceberg of abuses of indigenous cultural rights. Patterns of cultural violence include the seizure of traditional lands, the expropriation and the commercial use of indigenous cultural objects without permission from indigenous communities; the misinterpretation of indigenous histories, mythologies and cultures; the suppression of indigenous languages and religions; the denial of indigenous education; even the forcible removal of indigenous peoples from their families and the denial of their identity.

Recent years have witnessed the further development of abusive practices. States and transnational corporations have been expanding their activities to areas previously considered remote and inaccessible, areas where indigenous peoples live. Renewed interest in indigenous cultures has also brought renewed interest in acquiring products of indigenous art and indigenous traditional science. A new wave of tourism has disrupted indigenous historical and archaeological sites and has brought about the commercialisation of indigenous cultures. Biotechnology and the demand for new medicines have also intensified the interest in traditional botanology and medicine. These factors have lead to the unregulated use of aspects of indigenous cultures by various entities, such as states, international corporations, pharmaceutical companies and individuals, for their own agendas.