At its 1999 Congress, AMAN issued a famous statement which has made itinternationally renowned. 'We will not recognize the State, unless the State recognizes us.'This strong statement has not only challenged the government to respond tothe demands of the indigenous peoples, it has also stimulated a fertile andmuch needed debate inside the communities on what kind of recognition theindigenous peoples do actually seek from government. Moreover, thequestion goes further: if the State does recognize the rights of indigenouspeoples how exactly will they then exercise these rights. Are customaryinstitutions strong enough to resume the role of community self-governanceIs customary law well enough respected in the communities to assurecommunity welfare, social justice and sound natural resource management Iscustomary law suited to governing the interactions between communities andglobal markets Does custom need strengthening or reforming
Publication year
2003
Language
English
Keywords
natural resources, ownership, indigenous peoples, land rights, customary law
Geographic
Indonesia
