Handbook of indigenous peoples' rights /

In 2007, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the UN Declaration on Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). Though not legally binding, the declaration provides the basis for the existing and emerging human rights claims associated with indigenous peoples. This large handbook includes an introductory overview of the field of indigenous rights and is followed by 27 chapters focusing on a variety of issues related to the topic. These include the philosophical basis of indigenous rights, governance, the rights of women, development, the environment, political mobilization, and reparations. The last four chapters address specific case studies on advancing and protecting indigenous rights. Though many of the scholars and activists contributing to this handbook acknowledge the contested nature of these rights, the writers are generally sympathetic to the political, economic, social, and cultural claims of indigenous peoples. Given the new and emerging nature of this type of group rights, this comprehensive handbook provides an excellent introduction to the subject. This handbook is recommended for international organization scholars, human rights specialists, international relations students, and general readers. Summing Up: Recommended. General readers through professionals. --Mark R. Amstutz, Wheaton College