The World Bank and Indigenous peoples

Abstract

This article traces the evolution of the World Bank policy on indigenous people. In 1982, the World Bank issued a brief operational policy statement which outlined procedures for protecting the rights of so-called "tribal people" in Bank-financed development projects. Experience has shown, the World Bank directive stated, "that, unless special measures are adopted, tribal people are more likely to be harmed than helped by development projects that are intended for beneficiaries other than themselves. Therefore, whenever tribal peoples may be affected, the design of projects should include measures or components necessary to safeguard their interests, and, whenever feasible, to enhance their well-being. " This protectionist approach emerged from the Bank's experiences primarily in Latin America where there are well-rooted historical and legal antecedents. Over time, however, the Bank's approach has evolved to reflect the diversity of indigenous cultures, with more of an emphasis on informed engagement and expanding access to benefits from development rather than on protection alone.