Meta-analysis of demographic trends among indigenous populations in lowland Latin America

Kendra McSweeney, Ohio State University
Shahna Arps, Ohio State University

At recent meetings of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, delegates stressed the need for better demographic information. A major challenge is that relevant demographic data do exist but are scattered in disparate sources. Improved understanding of indigenous demographics must therefore begin with consolidation and reconciliation of these data. This paper offers one such meta-analysis for rural regions of lowland Latin America. By reviewing ethnographic, health, and census data, we compiled key indicators for over 200 distinct indigenous populations. Analysis indicates a common pattern of high fertility, declining mortality, and correspondingly youthful indigenous populations, distinct from non-indigenous rural populations. Further, the consistency of results across microdemographic and censal sources signals the potential for similar meta-analyses to illuminate indigenous population trends elsewhere. We close by reviewing our study’s relevance to nascent health initiatives targeting indigenous women and children, and to pan-ethnic indigenous organizations planning for common needs.