Statistically tracking the indigenous population is no easy matter, because of their diverse definitions of what constitutes an indigenous person. For statistical purposes, the main method used is whether a person self-identifies as indigenous. This approach has been incorporated into most censuses, although to a much lesser extent in sectoral surveys, thereby complicating this population’s statistical visibility. Other concepts such as their cosmovisions and concepts of well-being are essential to understanding this population group’s inequality gaps.

In 2018, the indigenous population of Latin America was estimated to be around 58 million, or close to 10% of the region’s population. Analysis of the inequality gaps separating indigenous peoples from the rest of society has historically been complicated by difficulties in statistically identifying indigenous populations.

Recognition of the rights of indigenous peoples has been addressed in many conventions, both international and regional. These instruments emphasize their rights to self-determination, collective ownership of indigenous land and the natural resources on such territory, as well as their culture and identity.

Policies for reducing the social inequality faced by the indigenous population must comprehend, in a cross-cutting manner, a peoples’ own forms of understanding well-being in keeping with their cosmovision. This approach extends to the design and implementation of strategies and programmes that ensure the territorial rights of indigenous peoples and greater access to culturally appropriate education and the most culturally appropriate health services.

Developmental gaps in indigenous communities have limited their access to potable water and medical services, thereby leaving this population group exposed to greater risk of negative COVID-19 effects, even as linguistic barriers denote weaker access to information on prevention measures.