Indigenous Knowledge has no one set definition. It is defined differently in different societies and cultures. As a broad stroke, UNESCO defines Indigenous Knowledge as referring “to the understandings, skills and philosophies developed by society with long histories of interaction with their natural surroundings”. These understandings, skills and philosophies can be found in Traditional Knowledge and Traditional Cultural Expressions.

• Traditional Knowledge is generally defined as the know-how, skills, innovations and practices developed by Indigenous peoples.
• Traditional Cultural Expressions are generally understood as the tangible and intangible forms in which traditional knowledge is expressed and may include oral stories, artwork, handicrafts, dances, fabric, songs or ceremonies. Traditional Knowledge and Traditional Cultural Expressions are often (but not always) collectively held, and may evolve over time as they are passed down between generations; they are often viewed as a living body of knowledge that is not static.

Learn more at Indigenous Knowledge Additional Readings and Resources.