Introduction-a holistic approach to Indigenous peoples' rights to cultural heritage

This introductory article examines key issues related to Indigenous conceptualisations of cultural heritage, especially intergenerational aspects, Indigenous concepts of time, Indigenous knowledge, heritage language, and relationships with the environment. It urges to reflect on how these aspects are integrated when legal mechanisms protecting and promoting Indigenous cultural heritage have been designed and developed. The article also discusses the ability to form resistance through Indigenous cultural heritage. Our examples, which primarily come from the Sami and also from global Indigenous perspectives, all point to the importance of a holistic approach to guarantee Indigenous peoples' rights to their cultural heritage. Finally, we discuss the crucial role of research and appropriate research methodologies in contributing to better protection of Indigenous cultural heritage.