To the Ends of the Earth?

A Reflection About How Making Indigenous Peoples Rights Compatible with the Right to Proselytize

Abstract

This article examines if proselytist activities directed at indigenous peoples should be allowed. In doing so, it starts by describing, in general terms, the right to proselytize as an element of the broader right to religious freedom; afterwards, it dwells on the recent developments in International Law about indigenous rights; finally, it assesses the advantages and disadvantages of the proselytist activities among indigenous peoples. Its purpose is to demonstrate that proselytism should not be considered a threat to indigenous peoples’ rights and culture; on the contrary, if carried out respecting some legal restrictions, it is essential to protect the rights of the indigenous peoples themselves.