Who are called Indigenous People? Discuss the challenges faced by them to their human rights.

Indigenous peoples are distinct ethnic groups, communities, or societies who have a historical continuity with pre-colonial or pre-settler societies that developed on their territories. They have unique cultural, social, economic, and political characteristics that distinguish them from the dominant societies in which they live. Indigenous peoples often have strong spiritual and cultural connections to their ancestral lands and territories.

The challenges faced by indigenous peoples in relation to their human rights are profound and multifaceted, stemming from historical injustices, discrimination, and marginalization. Some key challenges include:

1. Land and Resource Rights:
   Indigenous peoples often face challenges in securing and maintaining their land and resource rights. Many indigenous communities experience encroachment on their traditional lands by governments, corporations, or settlers for resource extraction, infrastructure development, or agriculture. This leads to displacement, loss of livelihoods, and disruption of cultural practices deeply tied to the land.

2. Discrimination and Marginalization:
   Indigenous peoples frequently experience discrimination and marginalization in societies where they are minorities. They may face barriers in accessing education, healthcare, employment, and other essential services. Discriminatory attitudes and stereotypes contribute to social exclusion and economic disparities.

3. Violence and Conflict:
   Indigenous peoples are disproportionately affected by violence and conflict, including land disputes, resource conflicts, and targeted attacks by state and non-state actors. Indigenous human rights defenders advocating for land rights, environmental protection, and cultural preservation often face threats, harassment, and violence.

4. Cultural Rights and Identity:
   Indigenous cultures, languages, and traditions are often under threat due to assimilation policies, forced displacement, and globalization. Indigenous languages may be endangered, traditional knowledge may be exploited without consent, and sacred sites may be desecrated. The loss of cultural identity erodes the social fabric and well-being of indigenous communities.

5. Health Disparities:
   Indigenous peoples experience higher rates of poverty, malnutrition, and preventable diseases compared to non-indigenous populations. Limited access to healthcare services, clean water, and sanitation exacerbates health disparities, leading to higher mortality rates and lower life expectancy.

6. Lack of Participation in Decision-Making:
   Indigenous peoples are often excluded from decision-making processes that affect their lives and territories. They may not have adequate representation in national governments or institutions responsible for policy-making. This lack of participation undermines their right to self-determination and autonomy.

7. Threats to Indigenous Women and Children:
   Indigenous women and children are particularly vulnerable to multiple forms of discrimination and violence, including gender-based violence, exploitation, and trafficking. They often face intersecting forms of discrimination based on gender, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status.

8. Environmental Degradation and Climate Change:
   Indigenous territories are often rich in biodiversity and natural resources, making them targets for exploitation and environmental degradation. Climate change exacerbates these threats, leading to loss of traditional livelihoods, increased food insecurity, and displacement.

Addressing the challenges faced by indigenous peoples requires concerted efforts by governments, international organizations, civil society, and indigenous communities themselves. It entails respecting and implementing international human rights standards, recognizing indigenous land rights and self-determination, promoting inclusive development policies, and combating discrimination and violence. Upholding the rights of indigenous peoples is essential for achieving sustainable development, promoting social justice, and preserving cultural diversity and environmental integrity for future generations.