The changes to Ecuador 's constitution in 1998 were not solely related to indigenous demands , but it changed the role of indigenous people in Ecuadorian society completely . The actual wording of the constitution defined Ecuador as a multiethnic and multicultural state , which would set the groundwork for the respect of indigenous rights that had been sought for so long . Many new rights were explicitly granted to indigenous groups in the new document , including “ the right to maintain , develop , and fortify their spiritual , cultural , linguistic , social , political and economic identity and traditions . ” Through the constitution the state was given many new responsibilities and standards to follow in terms of environmental conservation , the elimination of contamination , and sustainable management . Related to this was the right given to all people ( targeted toward indigenous communities ) that they must give prior consent before projects can be undertaken on their lands which will affect their lands . Finally , the document provides protection of self-determination among indigenous lands , preserving traditional political structures , and follows International Labour Organization , Convention 169 that outlines generally accepted international law on indigenous rights . All of these points had been sought after for so many years and were finally guaranteed in this rewrite of the most important document in the country
Convention 169
Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989
Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador