Põlisrahvad

Põlisrahvad is an Estonian term referring to indigenous peoples. It denotes groups who have historically inhabited a particular territory, often prior to the arrival or establishment of a dominant culture or state. The concept of põlisrahvad emphasizes a deep, ancestral connection to a land, its resources, and its cultural traditions. These groups typically possess distinct languages, customs, and social structures that have been passed down through generations.

The understanding and recognition of põlisrahvad are important in discussions of human rights, cultural preservation, and self-determination. In many parts of the world, indigenous peoples have faced historical injustices, including dispossession of land, cultural assimilation, and political marginalization. Efforts to protect and promote the rights of põlisrahvad often involve ensuring their ability to maintain their cultural identity, practice their traditions, and have a say in decisions affecting their lives and territories.

In the Estonian context, the term is primarily used when discussing the rights and status of indigenous groups globally, rather than referring to a specific indigenous group within Estonia itself, as Estonia's primary ethnic group, Estonians, are considered the indigenous inhabitants of the land. The term highlights the global phenomenon of indigenous peoples and their unique relationship with their ancestral homelands.