Differences of indigenous authorities within the ancestral field taking into account the communities, peoples and nationalities through

Abstract

The constitutional definition of plurinationality recognized in Ecuador created a legal framework for the coexistence of the diverse organizational forms of Indigenous peoples. However, ambiguities remain regarding the structural and operational differences between communes, peoples, and Indigenous nationalities. This research analyzes the differences among these three organizational levels in terms of their authority structures, appointment mechanisms, specific functions, ancestral justice systems, and relationships with the State. By comparing the documentary analysis of twenty-two specialized references with primary data from 77 Indigenous authorities residing in the provinces of Chimborazo, Tungurahua, and Cotopaxi, using a mixed-methods design, considerable differences emerge concerning territorial scope, legitimization procedures, and areas of competence. The findings indicate that communes primarily serve to resolve everyday conflicts and manage immediate territory, peoples coordinate inter-community cultural and educational policies, and nationalities articulate strategies for political advocacy and the defense of collective rights before state and international institutions. It is argued that this differentiated recognition is necessary to build a viable intercultural public policy response.