Abstract:

Since the 1980s, the discussion of issues relating to indigenous peoples by various United Nations agencies has increasingly centered on the idea of Traditional Knowledge (herein referred to as "TK"). This recognition of TK on the international level is comparatively recent, when one considers that the formal study of this subject matter began at the second half of the 19th century.Traditional knowledge is an important element of the intellectual and cultural heritage of indigenous peoples. It reflects their social and historical identity and significantly contributes to the future well-being and sustainable development of these peoples.