This book brings together two key concerns in development policy: the urgent need for poverty reduction and the situation of indigenous peoples in both developing and industrialized countries. It analyzes patterns of indigenous disadvantage worldwide and explores some difficult questions, including the right balance between autonomy and participation.

'This collection of essays lucidly addresses major issues related to poverty in the Mediterranean area. Empirical measurements of poverty reduced to a meaningless 'one or two dollars of daily expenditure', as suggested by the World Bank, are meant to escape the political economy analysis of the processes that generate the phenomenon. Eradicating poverty implies implementing a programme of social security for all citizens, whatever level of development is reached by the country, in accordance with the basic human rights approach cogently suggested in this book.' - Professor Samir Amin,...