According to the UN Declaration of Indigenous Peoples Rights, indigenous populations have been accorded collective rights regarding control ‘over certain areas colonised by the mainstream population at a certain point of history.’ These rights have been enshrined in concepts such as ‘sovereignty’ and ‘self-determination’, which have been a source of tension as they have challenged the moral and political authority of the states that claim or exercise authority over indigenous territories and peoples. This panel brings together theorists and practicing artists, among others, who have engaged with such issues, to discuss and interrogate ideas of ‘indigeneity’ and ‘sovereignty’, in the context of contemporary art, culture and politics.