Chapter 24 Chapter Summary

This chapter explores the relationships between international development and historically under-examined populations – Indigenous peoples. Only relatively recently have development agencies and economic policy analysts recognised that Indigenous peoples contribute greatly to development and the global economy but not always in ways that are easily measured by Western standards. Focussing mostly on Indigenous communities in Canada, this chapter begins this exploration with an examination of Indigenous communities and their role in economic history. The chapter then explores the strengths and challenges associated with Indigenous communities and economies both in their own right and as they relate to larger economies. Through these discussions the chapter posits that, while also intrinsically important, Indigenous communities are of great value to the larger community and make a case for diversity and inclusion. Lastly, the chapter explores concrete examples of success stories of Indigenous community economic resilience.