About IWGIAIndigenous peoples in Nepal
The indigenous nationalities (Adivasi Janajati) of Nepal officially comprise 8.4 million people, or 37.19% of the total population, although indigenous peoples’ organizations claim a larger figure of more than 50%.
Even though they constitute a significant proportion of the population, throughout the history of Nepal indigenous peoples have been marginalized in terms of language, culture, and political and economic opportunities. 102 castes, indigenous peoples and religious groups, and 92 mother tongues were listed in the 2001 census.
Legislation concerning indingeous peoples
Only 59 indigenous nationalities have so far been legally recognized under the National Foundation for Development of Indigenous Nationalities, NFDIN, Act of 2002. However, controversial recommendations for a revision of the list have recently been made.
The 2007 interim constitution of Nepal focuses on promoting cultural diversity and talks about enhancing the skills, knowledge and rights of indigenous peoples. The indigenous peoples of Nepal are waiting to see how these intentions will be made concrete in the new constitution, which is in the process of being promulgated.
Status of the ILO Convention 169 and the UNDRIP
In 2007, the Government of Nepal also ratified ILO Convention 169 on Indigenous and Tribal Peoples and voted in favour of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).
The implementation of ILO Convention 169 is still wanting, however, and it is yet to be seen how the new constitution will bring national laws into line with the provisions of the ILO Convention and UNDRIP.
Download the 2011 yearbook article on indigenous peoples in Nepal to read more about major developments and events during 2010
