About IWGIAIndigenous peoples in Venezuela
Venezuela is a multicultural country that recognises and guarantees the existence of its indigenous peoples and communities.
Indigenous peoples in Venezuela represent 2.2% of the national population and comprise: the Akawayo, Amorúa, Añú, Arawak, Arutani, Ayamán, Baniva, Baré, Barí, Caquetío, Cumanagoto, Chaima, E´ñepá, Gayón, Guanano, Hoti, Inga, Japreria, Jirajara, Jivi, Kari´ña, Kubeo, Kuiva, Kurripako, Mako, Makushi, Ñengatú, Pemón, Piapoko, Píritu, Puinave, Pumé, Sáliva, Sánema, Sapé, Timoto-Cuica, Waikerí, Wanai, Wapishana, Warao, Warekena, Wayuu, Wotjuja, Yanomami, Yavarana, Ye´kuana and Yukpa.
Legislation in favour of indigenous peoples' rights
The 1999 Constitution recognised the country’s multi-ethnic and pluricultural nature for the first time and included a chapter specifically dedicated to indigenous peoples' rights, opening up indigenous spaces for political participation at national, state and local level.
The Organic Law on Demarcation and Guarantees for the Habitat and Lands of the Indigenous Peoples came into force in 2001; ILO Convention 169 was ratified in 2002; and the Organic Law on Indigenous Peoples and Communities (LOPCI) was developed in 2005, broadly consolidating this framework of rights.
Venezuela voted in favour of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Download the 2011 yearbook article on indigenous peoples in Venezuela to read more about major developments and events during 2010
