Ethnodevelopment and Sustainability: an Approach of the Indigenous Territorial Policies

Abstract

This paper analyzes sustainable development in multicultural societies in the northern Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. We consider that the conflict from state action exists from the history of the indigenous communities and the centuries-old presence of small farmers. In order to justify this approach we have adopted Sen’s theory of Justice and the concept of ethnic development, because they guide for integration, tolerance, dialogue and the combination of plural objects in view of the development of human capabilities. The empirical data shows the need for a contextualized reflection in view of social justice and human rights to avoid exclusion, discrimination or classification of individuals and groups. We allege the need to respect different cultural subjects and the construction of development proposals aimed at strengthening democracy, the respect for people and social equity.