In depth: Indigenous cultures: At the heart of diversity

Indigenous peoples, who make up just about 5 per cent of the global population yet own, occupy and use more than a quarter of the world’s land area, are essential for cultural diversity but face increasing threats. It is estimated that half of the world’s approximately 7,000 languages will disappear by 2100. Most of these are Indigenous languages. UNESCO has been at the forefront of efforts and initiatives to protect Indigenous communities and their unique knowledge since the last century.