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The Committee has examined with interest the Government's detailed second report on the application of the Convention. It has noted in particular the significant measures that have been taken since the Convention's ratification with a view to improving the situation of the indigenous peoples of the country. These include the 1994 revision of the Constitution to recognize the existence of the indigenous peoples and the multi-ethnic and pluri-cultural nature of the Republic; the 1994 Act on Popular Participation which recognizes (section 3) the right of indigenous peoples to participate in decision making in accordance with their customs; and Supreme Decree No. 23858 of 9 September 1994 which defines indigenous peoples in terms very closely related to the present Convention.

The request the Committee is addressing directly to the Government notes a number of other measures which have been taken to give effect to the Convention's requirements. It also notes the obstacles encountered by the Government and by the authorities of the indigenous peoples in doing so. It has noted with particular interest in this regard the deliberations of the X Grand Assembly of the Indigenous Peoples of Bolivia (November 1994). It encourages the Government and the indigenous peoples to continue working together in this respect, and recalls that the technical assistance of the International Labour Office may be of assistance.