This yearbook contains the most comprehensive update on the current situation of indigenous peoples and the human rights and other international processes related to indigenous peoples. With contributions from both indigenous as well as non-indigenous scholars and activists, The Indigenous World gives an overview of crucial developments in 2004 that have impacted indigenous peoples of the world. It includes region and country reports covering most of the indigenous world and updated information on the processes within the UN system that relate to indigenous peoples such as: The Permanent Forum, The Draft Declaration on the Rights of the Indigenous Peoples, and The Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Indigenous Peoples. It also brings updated information on other international processes including news from the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights and the Organization of American States.

Diana Vinding is an anthropologist and project coordinator at The International Work Group for Indigenous Affairs.