Kenya - Protected area violates indigenous peoples' rights says African Commission
01 Feb 2010
A 'landmark' decision of the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights has affirmed the right of the Endorois pastoralists of Kenya to own their customary lands and to 'free, prior and informed consent', rights which were violated when they were removed from a protected area. The decision invokes the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and draws on the findings of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights. The case has major implications vindicating the right of all indigenous peoples to restitution for lands taken without their consent to create national parks and reserves.Summary of decision and press release from MRG International.