Free, prior and informed consent

There is not a definite definition of Free Prior Informed consent (FPIC), its aim is to establish bottom up participation and consultation of an Indigenous Population prior to the beginning of a development on ancestral land or using resources within the Indigenous Populations territory. Indigenous people (IP) have a special connection to their land and resources, they inhabit 20% of the earths surface, in areas that are environmentally rich in resources, both renewable and non-renewable. The collective ownership style of most Indigenous Peoples conflicts with the modern global market and its continuous need for resources and land. To protect indigenous peoples rights, International Human Rights law has created process and standards to safeguard their way of life and to encourage participation in the decision making process. One of these methods is the process of FPIC. There is criticism towards many International Conventions and Treaties which only require consultation and not consent. Without the requirement for Consent Indigenous People are not able to veto government projects and developments in their area which directly effects there lives and cultures. FPIC is part of allowing Indigenous People to have self-determination and self-governance in decisions made by their National and Local governments, that concern them and their local resources.