In Brazil ethnic groups are investigated in official statistics since 1872, starting with a colour-based question, and evolving throughout the centuries to a self-identification system based on ethnic and racial self-perception in national census editions and sample surveys. After the 1988 constitution, that ensured the recognition of Indigenous, Quilombolas and other traditional groups; IBGE was urged to advance in data production in a way to ensure “leaving no one behind”. First steps were translated in the inclusion of a new category for answering ethnic belonging in the traditional colour question, in 1991. To the existing categories - white, black, brown/mixed, yellow – the indigenous classification was added. Making it obvious the need to transform the question terminology to colour or race, recognizing that other factors are involved in ethnical-racial belonging, besides the phenotypical approach, such has geographic or ancestral origins, community belonging, cultural practices. Significant advances in the indigenous portrait in national census, were achieved in 2010, and consolidated in 2022. The same year that, for the first time, the Quilombola population had its first opportunity for statistical visibility, through the Census. The session discusses the participation of traditional peoples and communities (or tribal and indigenous peoples as denominated by OIT) in survey design, focusing on co-designed national instruments that guarantee the accurate, dignified, and representative inclusion of Indigenous and Quilombola populations in official statistics. It also explores how different factors related to methodological and operative choices made by INEs are crucial to ensure an enabling environment of trust in the official statistics production process. Pointing out how it all starts with a well-designed Consultation and free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) as preconized by the OIT, highlighting the competence of these forums when worked out in an open and transparent debate, focused on methodological and operative challenges. The different steps involved in the consultation process are aligned with the census design and will be approached: collaborative and participatory census cartography; operational planning; leaderships’ sensibilization; partnerships in logistical support; census workers training; on time monitoring, using internal systems and situation room; data treatment; accessible dissemination products. Challenges and good practices will be highlighted, as well as the ongoing steps taken by IBGE for future census, moving on to the full portrait of ethnical differentiated groups in Brazil, focusing on the 2030 census round, but also advancing on agricultural census and homelessness people.
