In this paper the authors deals with the concept of the protection of indigenous peoples and minorities from the perspective of international human rights law and the international protection of minorities. First, a brief introduction to the definition of indigenous and other ethnic (national) minorities is presented, followed by a discussion of the reasons for the particular vulnerability of indigenous populations.
In addition to the complex legacy of colonialism we have to consider the current context of climate change and environmental destruction and their impact on the traditional way of life of indigenous communities. The third part of this paper deals with the question to what extent the interpretation of the right of indigenous peoples to self-determination has been influenced by human rights paternalism.
It is clear that a human rights argument may under certain circumstances introduce a new form of colonial domination.