Paper short abstract:

Based on recent research in Namibia, this paper uses case studies of San Traditional Authorities to explore the complexity of indigenous rights issues in Namibia, and to assess correspondence between the principles enshrined in the UNDRIP and other indigenous rights documents, and local realities.

Paper long abstract:

The San (also knows as "Bushmen"), former hunter-gatherers from southern Africa, typify both the popular global conception of indigenous peoples, and the economic, political and social dilemmas that many indigenous groups face. About 38,000 San reside in Namibia, where they are at the very bottom of the socioeconomic ladder and their access to economic resources and government services is severely constrained. San communities in Namibia are vulnerable to land invasions, relocation, and shifts in access to economic opportunities. Political participation is extremely low. Namibia's Traditional Authorities (TA) Act allows for the election of local authorities, and five San communities currently have a TA that is recognized by the government. One large San community has been pursuing a case for recognition but is not yet recognized. Some of the San chiefs have participated in international indigenous peoples forums, including the UN Permanent Forum meeting in 2010, and all have participated in workshops on indigenous rights. Some of the chiefs are considered legitimate by their communities; others are strongly contested. The recognition of leadership is intimately linked with questions of land rights, and these issues take different shapes for different communities. Based on recent anthropological fieldwork in Namibia, including interviews with San chiefs and other local and national authorities, this paper uses case studies of San Traditional Authorities to explore the complexity of indigenous rights issues in Namibia, and to assess correspondence between the principles enshrined in the UNDRIP and other indigenous rights documents, and local realities.