CALENDAR OF EVENTS FROM THE UN SYSTEM ON INDIGENOUS ISSUES AND RELATED EVENTS
SPFII encourages colleagues from the UN system to provide us with the most up to date information on events that are of interest to indigenous peoples. Please send this information to Broddi Sigurdarson (sigurdarson[at]un.org).
A number of meetings of interest to indigenous peoples are organized by the Secretariat for the Convention on Biological Diversity. Click here to view their calendar of events.
UPCOMING EVENTS
International Expert Group Meeting on Indigenous Peoples and Climate Change, 2 -4 April 2008, Darwin, Australia.
[Workshop] Apr 2-4 2008
| Darwin, Australia
This workshop is a collaborative effort between the United Nations University Institute of Advanced Study (UNU-IAS), Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (SPFII) and North Australian Indigenous Land and Sea Management Alliance.
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Divison for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
indigenouspermanentforum@un.org
This workshop is a collaborative effort between the United Nations University Institute of Advanced Studies (UNU-IAS), Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (SPFII) and North Australian Indigenous Land and Sea Management Alliance. The main objectives of the workshop are to consider: · the effects of climate change on indigenous peoples; · adaptation measures to climate change; · carbon projects and carbon trading; and · factors that enable or obstruct indigenous peoples’ participation in the climate change processes. The Expert Group Meeting seeks to draw on the expertise of indigenous peoples, UNPFII members, relevant United Nations agencies, intergovernmental agencies, national and local governments, indigenous peoples' organizations, non-government organizations and academics that are active within the field of climate change.
SPFII has prepared a background paper. Climate Change an Overview For information about the meeting, please contact the organizers: Mr Sam Johnston United Nations University Institute of Advanced Study, email: johnston@ias.unu.edu Ms. Sonia Smallacombe, Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, email: smallacombe@un.org Mr Joe Morrison North Australian Indigenous Land & Sea Management Alliance (NAILSMA) Charles Darwin University, Darwin NT, email: joe.morrison@cdu.edu.au For administrative arrangements, contact Ms. Rahera Noa, United Nations University Institute of Advanced Study, email: noa@ias.unu.edu
PAST EVENTS
2008
January 2008
January 2008
UNPFII Expert Group Meeting (EGM) on Indigenous Languages
[Workshop] Jan 8-10 2008
| UN Headquarters, New York
This Expert Group Meeting is being organized in accordance with ECOSOC decision 2007/244, which authorized a three-day international expert group meeting on indigenous languages and requested that the results of the meeting be reported to the Permanent Forum at its seventh session.
This Expert Group Meeting is being organized in accordance with ECOSOC decision 2007/244, which authorized a three-day international expert group meeting on indigenous languages and requested that the results of the meeting be reported to the Permanent Forum at its seventh session.
In addition, the Permanent Forum stated the following in its report:
"Considering that 2008 is the International Year of Languages, the Permanent Forum recommends holding an expert group meeting on indigenous languages that will call upon States, the United Nations system and indigenous peoples and their organizations to consider the following elements:
(a) Working towards concrete actions and legislative development aimed at eliminating discrimination against the current use of indigenous languages;
(b) Developing programmes aimed at promoting the empowerment of indigenous languages through all mediums, including radio and television;
(c) Supporting and increasing the number of centres for the study of indigenous languages;
(d) Financing and supporting schemes for special projects that are formulated by indigenous peoples and are focused on revitalization and rescue of threatened languages;
(e) Designing, in consultation with indigenous peoples and the Permanent Forum, the organization of a world conference on linguistic diversity, indigenous languages, identity and education, as a contribution to the programme of the Second International Decade of the World’s Indigenous People." The Agenda of the Meeting will be based on the above mentioned recommendation of the forum.
The EGM will be attended by indigenous experts, UNPFII members as well as interested Member States, UN Agencies, Indigenous Peoples' Organizatinos, AND Non-Governmental Organizations. Interested parties should contact the Secretariat about participating in the EGM as observers. Please note that space in the conference room is limited and the Secretariat may not be able to accommodate all requests for participation.
Contact: Broddi Sigurdarson (sigurdarson[at]un.org)
Click here to read more about the Meeting and to view the meeting documents.
2007
November 2007
November 2007
Consultative Group of Indigenous Leaders and the UN system/Latin American and Carribbean Region
[Workshop] Nov 5-6 2007
| Quito, Ecuador
The objective of the meeting was to identify opportunities and challenges after the adoption of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, identify common actions for the publicization and implementation of the Declaration and of the Programme of Action or the Second Decade as well as to discuss regional preparations for the special theme of the next session of the UNPFII.
CONTACT:
>>> Report of the of the meeting of the Consultative Group of Indigenous Leaders and the UN system/Latin American and Carribbean Region
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Microsoft Word (doc)
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October 2007
October 2007
Fifth meeting of the Ad Hoc Open-ended Working Group on Article 8(j) and Related Provisions (WG8J-5) of the Convention on Biological Diversity.
[Meeting] Oct 15-19 2007
| Montreal, Canada
CONTACT:
Fifth meeting of the Ad Hoc Open-ended Working Group on Article 8(j) and Related Provisions (WG8J-5) of the Convention on Biological Diversity. Go to the
SCBD Calendar of SCBD Meetings for further information.
August 2007
August 2007
International Expert Group Meeting on Indigenous Peoples and Protection of the Environment
27 - 29 August 2007, Khabarovsk, Russian Federation.
[Workshop] Aug 27-29 2007
| 27 - 29 August 2007, Khabarovsk, Russian Federation.
The objective of the meeting was to promote an opportunity to exchange information of the adverse effects of wide ranging toxic, dangerous products and wastes that impact on the well-being of indigenous peoples' spiritual, cultural and physical well-being, their food sources and lands; identify types of environmental discrimination and the forms that it takes; consider how indigenous peoples might seek administrative or legal remedies in regards to the effects of toxic, dangerous products and wastes as well as natural and man-made disasters under existing international standards; highlight good practice models; identify gaps and challenges and a possible way forward; draw attention to the contamination of the Amur river which flows along transnational borders and has a dramatic impact on the traditional lifestyle and health of indigenous peoples of the Khabarovsk Krai region.
July 2007
July 2007
International Workshop on Perspectives of Relationships between Indigenous Peoples and Industrial Companies
[Workshop] Jul 1-4 2007
| Salekhard
The workshop was co-organized by the Administration of the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, the Russian Association of Indigenous Peoples of the North, Siberia and the Far East (RAIPON) and the Secretariat of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, with support from the Public Chamber of the Russian Federation.
Some 80 persons participated at the workshop, including 13 Members of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people, indigenous experts from the Pacific Region, Central and South America, Africa, the Arctic, North America, and the Russian Federation, representatives of 7 companies operating in the Russian Federation, representatives of the Government of the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, the Government of the Russian Federation and the Public Chamber of the Russian Federation, and representatives of national and international non-governmental organizations.
Click here to view the documents from the workshop
March 2007
March 2007
Expert meeting to review statistical information measuring violence against women with an ethnic perspective
[Meeting] Mar 29-30 2007
| Mexico
CONTACT:
UNHABITAT Expert Group Meeting on Urban Indigenous Peoples and Migration
[Meeting] Mar 27-29 2007
| Santiago, Chile
CONTACT:
Informal pre-sessional meeting for Sixth Session of Forum
[Workshop] Mar 19-21 2007
| Beijing, China
Informal pre-sessional meeting for Sixth Session of Forum The Government of China will host the 2007 informal pre-sessional meeting of the Sixth Session of the Forum in Beijing, China, from 19 to 21 March 2007. This is the second time that a member State of the United Nations generously offers the hosting of an informal pre-sessional meeting of the Forum prior to its annual session in May. The 2006 pre-sessional meeting was held in Nuuk, Greenland, from 13 to 14 February 2006 and hosted by the Greenlandic Home Rule Government with the support of the Danish Government.
January 2007
January 2007
Expert Group Meeting on the Convention on Biological Diversity´s international regime on access and benefit-sharing and indigenous peoples´ rights.
[Workshop] Jan 17-19 2007
| 17 - 19 January 2007, UN Headquarters, New York
This workshop has been organized in accordance with the recommendation of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues at its Fifth which states:
"The UNPFII recommends a three-day international expert group meeting on the Convention on Biological Diversity international regime on access and benefit-sharing and indigenous peoples´rights with the participation of representatives from the United Nations system, and five members of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, and invites other interested intergovernmental organizations, experts from indigenous organizations, and interested Member States to participate as well, and requests that the results of the meeting be reported to the Permanent Forum at its sixth session in May 2007."
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Divison for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
indigenouspermanentforum@un.org
A. OBJECTIVES OF THE WORKSHOP The Expert Group Meeting is intended to:
Promote an opportunity to evaluate current negotiation and agreement-making practices in terms of effective participation of indigenous peoples and their ability to produce outcomes which adequately take into account indigenous peoples’ concerns and rights; Promote an opportunity to exchange information of ABS processes currently operating in various regions that take into account the rights of indigenous peoples; Promote an opportunity to formulate benchmarks for agreement-making and; Highlight good practice models; Identify gaps and challenges and a possible way forward. B. PROPOSED THEMES FOR DISCUSSION
Four major themes of discussion are proposed as follows: Theme 1: International Standards and policies on agreement-making with reference to indigenous peoples. Theme 2: Areas in which indigenous peoples’ participation is relevant to any ABS arrangements. Theme 3: Factors that enable or obstruct indigenous peoples’ participation in the CDB processes. Theme 4: Good examples of indigenous participation in negotiating ABS processes in other arenas.
Click here to view the documents of the Expert Group Meeting
Expert Group Meeting on the Convention on Biological Diversity´s international regime on access and benefit-sharing and indigenous peoples´ rights.
[Workshop] Jan 17-19 2007
| 17 - 19 January 2007, UN Headquarters, New York
This workshop has been organized in accordance with the recommendation of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues at its Fifth which states:
"The UNPFII recommends a three-day international expert group meeting on the Convention on Biological Diversity international regime on access and benefit-sharing and indigenous peoples´rights with the participation of representatives from the United Nations system, and five members of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, and invites other interested intergovernmental organizations, experts from indigenous organizations, and interested Member States to participate as well, and requests that the results of the meeting be reported to the Permanent Forum at its sixth session in May 2007."
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Divison for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
indigenouspermanentforum@un.org
A. OBJECTIVES OF THE WORKSHOP The Expert Group Meeting is intended to:
Promote an opportunity to evaluate current negotiation and agreement-making practices in terms of effective participation of indigenous peoples and their ability to produce outcomes which adequately take into account indigenous peoples’ concerns and rights; Promote an opportunity to exchange information of ABS processes currently operating in various regions that take into account the rights of indigenous peoples; Promote an opportunity to formulate benchmarks for agreement-making and; Highlight good practice models; Identify gaps and challenges and a possible way forward. B. PROPOSED THEMES FOR DISCUSSION
Four major themes of discussion are proposed as follows: Theme 1: International Standards and policies on agreement-making with reference to indigenous peoples. Theme 2: Areas in which indigenous peoples’ participation is relevant to any ABS arrangements. Theme 3: Factors that enable or obstruct indigenous peoples’ participation in the CDB processes. Theme 4: Good examples of indigenous participation in negotiating ABS processes in other arenas.
Click here to view the documents of the Expert Group Meeting
2006
December 2006
December 2006
Expert Group Meeting on a non-legally binding instrument on all types of forests
[Workshop] Dec 11-15 2006
| UN Headquarters, New York
The United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF) will start the formal negotiation of a non-legally binding instrument on all types of forests at an An Hoc Expert Group meeting to be held in New York from 11-15 December 2007.
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Divison for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
indigenouspermanentforum@un.org
The United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF) will start the formal negotiation of a non-legally binding instrument on all types of forests at an An Hoc Expert Group meeting to be held in New York from 11-15 December 2007. The instrument will set the framework for all future work of the UNFF. The UNFF Secretariat invites all ECOSOC accredited organizations to participate actively in the process. Those interested in attending the meeting should send an official letter on organization letterhead signed by the Executive Director to Fax: +1 917.367.3186, or by email to unff@un.org. All relevant documentation for the meeting, including a Note by the Secretariat summarizing country proposals for the instrument and a Draft Compilation text, which may be used as the basis for negotiation, can be found on the
UNFF website.
Expert Group Meeting: The State of the World´s Indigenous Peoples.
Preparation of the publication entitled The State of the World´s Indigenous Peoples
[Workshop] Dec 1-2 2006
| Salekhard, Russia
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Divison for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
indigenouspermanentforum@un.org
September 2006
September 2006
Latin America and the Caribbean Regional Meeting on Indicators
[Workshop] Sep 4-6 2006
| 4-6 September 2006, Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua
The Permanent Forum has emphasized the need for indigenous experts to identify gaps in existing indicator frameworks, examine linkages between quantitative and qualitative criteria, and propose the development of indicators that are culturally-specific, measure exclusion, and reflect the aspirations of indigenous peoples.
In order to progress work in this area, the Centro para la Autonomía y Desarrollo de los Pueblos Indígenas is organizing a regional meeting on indicators in cooperation with SPFII from 4-6 September 2006 in Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua. This meeting follows the Ottawa meeting on indicators (21-23 March 2006), and is the first in a series of regional meetings that are being organized globally.
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Divison for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
indigenouspermanentforum@un.org
>>> Proposed Agenda fo Workshop on Indicators of Well-being in Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua
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>>> List of participants at the Workshop on Indicators of Well-being in Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua
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April 2006
April 2006
Indigenous Peoples and Migration
[Workshop] Apr 6-7 2006
| Geneva
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Divison for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
indigenouspermanentforum@un.org
Migration, especially the movement of people across national borders, has risen to the top of the development agenda in recent years. This is a result of the recognition of the far-reaching development implications of migrant flows for both sending and receiving communities. A review by the Global Commission on International Migration (GCIM) has observed that migration has generally not been considered an integral component of the development agenda. While this neglect is evident across countries and various population groups, it is even more acute with respect to indigenous populations.
The SPFII, with the collaboration and assistance of the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), is organizing a meeting to address some of the gaps in knowledge with respect to indigenous peoples and migration. It is expected that the conclusions and recommendations of this meeting will feed into discussions at the Fifth Session of the UNPFII in May and also provide inputs into the UN High Level Dialogue on International Migration in September 2006.
Click here for additional information about the workshop
March 2006
March 2006
Indigenous Peoples and Indicators of Well-Being
[Workshop] Mar 22-23 2006
| Ottawa, Canada
The Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues and Indian and Northern Affaris Canada are co-organizing a workshop on indicators.
>>> Concept Note for Meeting on Indigenous Peoples and Indicators for Well-Being
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Adobe Acrobat (pdf)
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The UN system and a significant number of its Member States have been gearing their programming at the national level for the achievement of the eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), 18 targets and 48 indicators. The formulation of the Goals and the targets and indicators, however, did not include the participation of or consultation with indigenous peoples, thus resulting in a situation where the goals, targets and indicators do not capture or inadequately capture the situation of indigenous peoples. At its Fourth Session in 2005, the Permanent Forum stated that “…Poverty indicators based on indigenous peoples’ own perception of their situation and experiences should be developed jointly with indigenous peoples” In order to assist in this effort, the Secretariat of the Permanent Forum is organizing a series of meetings of indigenous experts on indicators and seeks to build on the challenges, gaps, and existing work on global and regional indicators across the mandated areas of the Permanent Forum.
Click here to view the Meeting Report and the papers submitted at the meeting
Combatting Violence Against indigenous Women: Issues Challenges and Models
Mar 1 2006
| 1:30-2:50, Church Center (44th Street and 1st Avenue) 12th floor, DHL Room
What does violence against women have to do with Indigenous rights?
How are Indigenous women combating violence in their families, communities, countries and internationally?
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Divison for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
indigenouspermanentforum@un.org
Speakers: Charlotte Bunch, Executive Director of the Center for Women’s Global Leadership; Rose Cunningham, Coordinator of Wangki Tangni; Carolyn Hannan, Director of the Division for the Advancement of Women; Rebecca Lolosoli, Chair of the Umoja Uaso Women’s Group; Lucky Sherpa, Himalayan Indigenous Women Network; and Elsa Stamatopoulou, Chief of the Secretariat of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues. This event is co-sponsored by MADRE, FIMI, the Center for Women’s Global Leadership and the Secretariat of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.
February 2006
February 2006
Opportunities and Challenges for Women in the Americas
[Meeting] Feb 28 2006
| 1:15 - 2:45, UN Secretariat Conference Room D
The panelists of this session will present the political advances of women in the Latin American and the Caribbean (LAC) Region, the opportunities and challenges that they face, and the importance of adhering to a commitment to gender equality and womens participation during the ongoing debates and transformation of the United Nations System and its role in development cooperation.
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Divison for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
indigenouspermanentforum@un.org
The panelists of this session will present the political advances of women in the Latin American and the Caribbean (LAC) Region, the opportunities and challenges that they face, and the importance of adhering to a commitment to gender equality and women’s participation during the ongoing debates and transformation of the United Nations System and its role in development cooperation.
Organised by : UNIFEM and the Permanent Mission of Mexico to the United Nations for the GRULAC Missions
Chair:
H.E. Ms. Carmen María Gallardo Hernández, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, El Salvador; Chairperson, Bureau of the Commission on the Status of Women (fiftieth and fifty-first sessions)
Speakers:
Patricia Espinosa, President, National Institute of Women, MEXICO (INMUJERES)
H.E. Ms. Rosalyn Hazelle, Ambassador Plenipotentiary, Ministry of Industry and Commerce
Mirian Masaquiza, Associate Social Affairs Officer, UN Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, DSPD – DESA
Marijke Velzeboer-Salcedo; UNIFEM Chief Latin America and the Caribbean Section
For more information on this event please contact
Anabelle.lugo@unifem.org
United Nations Permanent Forum Workshop on Partnership Visions for The Second International Decade of the Worlds Indigenous Peoples
[Workshop] Feb 13-17 2006
| Nuuk, Greenland
The workshop is co-sponsored by the Danish International Development Agency, Danida and the Greenland Home Rule Government and hosted in partnership with the Inuit Circumpolar Conference.
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Divison for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
indigenouspermanentforum@un.org
The workshop is co-sponsored by the Danish International Development Agency, Danida and the Greenland Home Rule Government and hosted in partnership with the Inuit Circumpolar Conference. While providing the Permanent Forum with an opportunity to meet indigenous peoples of the Arctic Region, the objective of the workshop is to share practical experience in partnership building and to propose concrete measures to establish and maintain mutually beneficial partnerships between indigenous peoples and various local, national and international organizations. Diverse types of partnership and experiences in this regard will be presented at the workshop. Participants include representatives of the Greenland Home Rule Government, members of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, representatives from governments and indigenous organizations and UN agencies. The workshop will report in recommendations and proposals for action to ensure the further development and mutual benefit of partnerships between the indigenous and non-indigenous world at the 5th session of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues in May 2006.
January 2006
January 2006
Indigenous Preparatory Meeting for the eleventh session of the inter-sessional working group on the draft United Nations declaration on the rights of indigenous peoples
[Meeting] Jan 28-29 2006
| Geneva, Switzerland
CONTACT:
Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
Ms Samia Slimane
Palais des Nations
Geneva,
Switzerland
sslimane@ohchr.org
Fourth meeting of the Ad Hoc Open-ended Working Group on Article 8(j)
[Meeting] Jan 23-27 2006
| Granada, Spain
International Indigenous Forum on Biodiversity
[Conference] Jan 21-22 2006
| Granada, Spain
International Women's Biodiversity Network
[Conference] Jan 20 2006
| Granada, Spain
International Expert Group Meeting on the Millennium Development Goals, Indigenous Participation and Good Governance
[Workshop] Jan 11 2006 - Jan 13 2005
| UN Headquarters, New York, Conference Room 6
The Workshop brought together participants from the United Nations system and other intergovernmental organizations, Governments and indigenous experts. The Workshop report contribute to further progress on this issue and will be submitted to the Permanent Forums fifth session. Due to the technical nature of this meeting, a limited number of participants were able to attend.
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Divison for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
indigenouspermanentforum@un.org
>>> Report of the International Expert Group Meeting on the Millennium Development Goals, Indigenous Participation and Good Governance
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Adobe Acrobat (pdf)
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This workshop was organized in accordance with the recommendation of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues at its Fourth Session and as decided by the Economic and Social Council at its substantive session of 2005(decision 2005/252). The overall objectives of the workshop were: 1) Highlight the importance of indigenous representation in decision-making processes within the context of the MDGs and the Millennium Declaration overall, as well as the broader context of the current socio-economic and political transformations, the World Summit Outcome and the broader UN development agenda.
2) Examine linkages between indigenous presence in governance and other decision-making bodies at all levels and their impact on policy formulation and the conduct of public institutions.
3) Consider the interplay between indigenous economic and political participation and the development of indigenous communities and their economic empowerment, focusing on persisting barriers to indigenous entry into politics and public representative institutions in light of their economic empowerment in the past decades.
4) Propose strategies to advance indigenous participation through capacity-building, coalition-building and indigenous and gender-sensitive institutional policies, programmes and mechanisms.
Click here to view the Workshop Documents
2005
December 2005
December 2005
Second meeting of the Ad Hoc Open-ended Working Group on Protected Areas
[Meeting] Dec 5-9 2005
| Montreal, Canada
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity
The eleventh session of the inter-sessional working group on the draft United Nations declaration on the rights of indigenous peoples
[Conference] Dec 5-16 2005
| Geneva, Switzerland
CONTACT:
Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
Ms Samia Slimane
Palais des Nations
Geneva,
Switzerland
sslimane@ohchr.org
Indigenous Preparatory Meeting for the eleventh session of the inter-sessional working group on the draft United Nations declaration on the rights of indigenous peoples
[Meeting] Dec 3-4 2005
| Geneva, Switzerland
CONTACT:
Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
Ms Samia Slimane
Palais des Nations
Geneva,
Switzerland
sslimane@ohchr.org
November 2005
November 2005
The Eleventh Meeting of the Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice (SBSTTA - 11)
[Meeting] Nov 28 - Dec 2 2005
| Montreal, Canada
Indigenous Preparatory Meeting for the Eleventh Meeting of the Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical, and Technological Advice (SBSTTA-11)
[Meeting] Nov 26-27 2005
| Montreal, Canada
World Summit Information Society Phase II
[Conference] Nov 16-18 2005
| Tunis
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Division for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
Ms Miriam Masaquiza
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
masaquiza@un.org
Business and the Biodiversity Challenge
[Conference] Nov 3-5 2005
| Sau Paolo, Brazil
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity
October 2005
October 2005
General Assembly Agenda Item on Indigenous Issues
[Meeting] Oct 19 2005
| UN Headquarters, New York
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Divison for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
indigenouspermanentforum@un.org
Strengthening the practical application of policies for supporting indigenous peoples through development cooperation
[Conference] Oct 3-4 2005
| ILO Headquarters, Geneva
CONTACT:
Project to Promote ILO Policy on Indigenous and Tribal Peoples
Ms Birgite Feiring
Chief Technical Advisor
feiring@ilo.org
September 2005
September 2005
International Workshop on Traditional Knowledge
[Workshop] Sep 21-23 2005
| Panama City, Panama
The workshop was organized as follow up to the recommendations of the Permanent Forum (E/2005/43) and hosted by the UNICEF's Regional for Latin American and the Caribbean. The workshop was attended by 12 indigenous experts from various regions (Latin America, Asia, Pacific, Africa, North America, the Arctic and Russian Federation), representatives from 9 UN agencies, 2 members of the Permanent Forum and the Chairperson / Rapporteur of the Working Group on Indigenous Populations.
The workshop was organized as follow up to the recommendations of the Permanent Forum (E/2005/43) and hosted by the UNICEF's Regional for Latin American and the Caribbean. The workshop was attended by 12 indigenous experts from various regions (Latin America, Asia, Pacific, Africa, North America, the Arctic and Russian Federation), representatives from 9 UN agencies, 2 members of the Permanent Forum and the Chairperson / Rapporteur of the Working Group on Indigenous Populations. During the two and half day workshop, participants exchanged information and extensively discussed ways on how different United Nations entities working on traditional knowledge can better integrate a more collaborative, complementary and holistic approach to traditional knowledge in order to enhance better understanding of indigenous concerns and their possible solution. The outstanding quality of papers presented by indigenous experts were highly appreciated, they have substantively contributed towards the formulation of specific recommendations to the UN system and other inter-governmental organizations with a view to better integrating indigenous perspectives in their work on traditional knowledge. The report and recommendations were adopted by the workshop and will be submitted to the Fifth Session of the Permanent Forum.
View all of the papers from the workshop here
International Workshop on Traditional Knowledge
[Workshop] Sep 21-23 2005
| Panama City, Panama
The workshop was organized as follow up to the recommendations of the Permanent Forum (E/2005/43) and hosted by the UNICEF's Regional for Latin American and the Caribbean. The workshop was attended by 12 indigenous experts from various regions (Latin America, Asia, Pacific, Africa, North America, the Arctic and Russian Federation), representatives from 9 UN agencies, 2 members of the Permanent Forum and the Chairperson / Rapporteur of the Working Group on Indigenous Populations.
The workshop was organized as follow up to the recommendations of the Permanent Forum (E/2005/43) and hosted by the UNICEF's Regional for Latin American and the Caribbean. The workshop was attended by 12 indigenous experts from various regions (Latin America, Asia, Pacific, Africa, North America, the Arctic and Russian Federation), representatives from 9 UN agencies, 2 members of the Permanent Forum and the Chairperson / Rapporteur of the Working Group on Indigenous Populations. During the two and half day workshop, participants exchanged information and extensively discussed ways on how different United Nations entities working on traditional knowledge can better integrate a more collaborative, complementary and holistic approach to traditional knowledge in order to enhance better understanding of indigenous concerns and their possible solution. The outstanding quality of papers presented by indigenous experts were highly appreciated, they have substantively contributed towards the formulation of specific recommendations to the UN system and other inter-governmental organizations with a view to better integrating indigenous perspectives in their work on traditional knowledge. The report and recommendations were adopted by the workshop and will be submitted to the Fifth Session of the Permanent Forum.
View all of the papers from the workshop here
August 2005
August 2005
Partnerships between Indigenous Peoples, Governments and Civil Society
[Workshop] Aug 15 2005
| Brisbane, Australia
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Divison for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
indigenouspermanentforum@un.org
Partnerships between Indigenous Peoples, Governments and Civil Society
[Workshop] Aug 15 2005
| Brisbane, Australia
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Divison for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
indigenouspermanentforum@un.org
May 2005
May 2005
Panel discussion on Millennium +5
May 20 2005
| 3:00pm - 4:30pm. Conference Room 2
Panel discussion on A Learning Exchange: Forging Better Partnerships to Achieve the MDGs
May 20 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. Conference Room 9
Premier of the first UN film on the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
May 20 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. Daj Hammarskjold Library Auditorium
Panel discussion on Indigenous Women and Peace Building
May 20 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. DC2-19 th Floor Conference Room
Panel discussion on Indigenous Women and the Second Decade
May 20 2005
| 4:30pm - 6:00pm. Conference Room 2
Panel discussion on Indigenous Economies the Macro-Economic Dimension of Indigenous Rights
May 20 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. DC2- 12th Flooor - Conference Room
Panel discussion on Indigenous Peoples in voluntary isolation facing the MDGs, Reflexions on the slaughter of Tagaeri and Taromenae peoples in Ecuador / Pueblos No Contactados a nte el Nuevo Milenio. Reflexiones en torno a la matanza de los Tagaeri y Taro
May 20 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. Conference Room 8
A Celebration of Life Ingrid Washinawatok El Issa-Flying Eagle Woman
May 20 2005
| 6:00pm - 9:00pm. United Nations Church Center - 777 UN Plaza
Panel discussion on Helping Achieve the MDGs: Presentation of Case studies of IFAD-financed projects in indigenous communities in Bolivia, Brazil, India and Peru
May 20 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. Conference Room 2
Panel discussion on Protecting Sacred Species: Indicators of the planet
May 19 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. United Nations Church Center - 777 UN Plaza, 8th Floor
Screening film: Behind the Green' on Khasi indigenous community of Bangladesh
May 19 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. Daj Hammarskjold Library Auditorium
Panel discussion on WSIS International Indigenous Steering Committee
May 19 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm.Conference Room 9
Panel discussion on A good example of how to achieve goal 2 of the MDGs / Un ejemplo de como alcanzar el Objetivo 2 de los ODM
May 19 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45 pm. Conference Room 8
Regional meeting focus on Asia
May 19 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. Conference Room 2
A UNDP roundtable to discuss and highlight UNDP's work in human rights, environment, poverty and the MDGs
May 18 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. DC1- 21st Floor - Hank Shannon Conference Room
Regional meeting focus on Africa
May 18 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. Conference Room 2
Panel discussion on : Population, Sexual and Reproductive Health and Gender Equity within the MDGs from the Perspective of the Indigenous Peoples
May 18 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. DC2-19 th Floor - Conference Room
Training on The International Human Rights Framework: Opportunities and Challenges for Indigenous Peoples
May 18 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. UN Church Center (Corner of 44th and 1st Ave) 10th Floor
Panel discussion on : The Reindeer Grazing Cases in Sweden the Saami culture at risk
May 18 2005
| 3:00pm - 4:30pm. Conference Room 2
Panel discussion on Learning Strategies and Techniques to increase funding for Indigenous Communities
May 18 2005
| 4:30pm - 6:00pm. Conference Room 2
Launching of the book: Indigenous peoples' right to adequate housing: A Global Overview
May 18 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. Conference Room 9
>>> Indigenous peoples' right to adequate housing: A Global Overview
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Cultural Exhibit opening and reception
May 17 2005
| 6:10pm. UN Lobby
Panel discussion on:Indigenous Peoples and poverty reduction: operationalizing a rights-based approach
May 17 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. Conference Room 2
Launching of the book: The Indigenous World 2005
May 17 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. Conference Room 8
Panel discussion on:Native American Writers on Writing
May 17 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. Conference Room 9
Panel discussion on: The UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Populations
May 17 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. DC2-19 th Floor - Conference Room
>>> The UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Populations
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Panel discusion on Challenging the Doctrine of Discovery: Christianity, the Papal Bulls and Manifest Destiny
May 17 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. United Nations Church Center - 777 UN Plaza, 8th Floor
Presentación de la política de la Cooperación Española con los pueblos indígenas y presentación del libro Visiones indígenas sobre desarrollo y cooperación
May 17 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. DC1-19th Floor - Conference Room
Panel discussion on Khmer Krom Rights and the UNPFII
May 16 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. DC2-21st Floor - Conference Room
Panel discussion on Human Rights violation
May 16 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm, DC2-19th Floor - Conference Room
Panel discussion on: Peoples Partnership and the Environment
May 16 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. Conference Room 8
>>> Peoples Partnership and the Environment
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Panel discussion on Indigenous Women Dialogue on MDGs
May 16 2005
| 1:15pm - 2:45pm. Conference Room 2
>>> Indigenous Women Dialogue on MDGs
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Brown bag lunch on Learnings from the Indigenous Facilitation and Mediation Project, Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies.
May 16 2005
| 12:30pm - 2:00pm. DC2-17th Floor - Conference Room
January 2005
January 2005
International Workshop on Methodologies regarding Free, Prior and Informed Consent and Indigenous Peoples
[Workshop] Jan 17-19 2005
| New York
The Workshop was convened in accordance with the Economic and Social Council decision 2004/287, following a recommendation of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issuess at its third session.
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Divison for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
indigenouspermanentforum@un.org
>>> Report of the International Workshop on Methodologies regarding Free, Prior and Informed Consent
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Adobe Acrobat (pdf)
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The International Workshop on Methodologies regarding Free, Prior and Informed Consent and Indigenous Peoples was convened in accordance with Economic and Social Council decision 2004/287 of 22 July 2004, following a recommendation of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues at its third session. The principle of free, prior and informed consent had been identified as a major challenge by the Forum at its first, second and third sessions. In response to the Council’s decision, the Workshop was held from 17 to 19 January 2005. The Workshop was attended by 67 experts and observers from the United Nations system and other intergovernmental organizations, Governments and indigenous organizations. The Workshop examined the international and domestic instruments and practices relevant to the principle of free, prior and informed consent, heard examples of the application of the principle, identified challenges, and made recommendations about free, prior and informed consent and indigenous peoples. In its conclusions and recommendations, the Workshop identifies elements of a common understanding of free, prior and informed consent and indigenous peoples, promoting better methodologies regarding free, prior and informed consent and indigenous peoples for the consideration of the Forum at its fourth session.
Click here to view all of the Workshop documents
International Workshop on Methodologies regarding Free, Prior and Informed Consent and Indigenous Peoples
[Workshop] Jan 17-19 2005
| New York
The Workshop was convened in accordance with the Economic and Social Council decision 2004/287, following a recommendation of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issuess at its third session.
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Divison for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
indigenouspermanentforum@un.org
>>> Report of the International Workshop on Methodologies regarding Free, Prior and Informed Consent
[
Adobe Acrobat (pdf)
]
The International Workshop on Methodologies regarding Free, Prior and Informed Consent and Indigenous Peoples was convened in accordance with Economic and Social Council decision 2004/287 of 22 July 2004, following a recommendation of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues at its third session. The principle of free, prior and informed consent had been identified as a major challenge by the Forum at its first, second and third sessions. In response to the Council’s decision, the Workshop was held from 17 to 19 January 2005. The Workshop was attended by 67 experts and observers from the United Nations system and other intergovernmental organizations, Governments and indigenous organizations. The Workshop examined the international and domestic instruments and practices relevant to the principle of free, prior and informed consent, heard examples of the application of the principle, identified challenges, and made recommendations about free, prior and informed consent and indigenous peoples. In its conclusions and recommendations, the Workshop identifies elements of a common understanding of free, prior and informed consent and indigenous peoples, promoting better methodologies regarding free, prior and informed consent and indigenous peoples for the consideration of the Forum at its fourth session.
Click here to view all of the Workshop documents
2004
May 2004
May 2004
Workshop on Data Collection and Disaggregation for Indigenous Peoples
[Workshop] May 10-21 2004
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Divison for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
indigenouspermanentforum@un.org
Workshop on Data Collection and Disaggregation for Indigenous Peoples
[Workshop] May 10-21 2004
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Divison for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
indigenouspermanentforum@un.org
Workshop on Data Collection and Disaggregation for Indigenous Peoples
[Press Conference] May 10-21 2004
| United Nations, New York
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Division for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
Ms Miriam Masaquiza
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
masaquiza@un.org
>>> Report of the Workshop on Data Collection and Disaggregation for Indigenous Peoples
[
Adobe Acrobat (pdf)
]
The Workshop on Data Collection and Disaggregation for Indigenous Peoples was convened in accordance with Economic and Social Council decision 2003/300, following a recommendation of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues at its second session. Data collection was identified as an urgent priority by the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues at both its first and second sessions. In response to the Council’s decision the Workshop was held from 19 to 21 January 2004.
The Workshop was attended by 36 experts from the United Nations system and other intergovernmental organizations, Governments, indigenous organizations and academia. The Workshop discussed a number of case studies and examined challenges and made recommendations concerning data collection and disaggregation concerning indigenous peoples.
In its recommendations, the Workshop promotes better data collection and disaggregation concerning indigenous peoples for the consideration of the Permanent Forum at its third session.
Workshop on Data Collection and Disaggregation for Indigenous Peoples
[Press Conference] May 10-21 2004
| United Nations, New York
CONTACT:
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
Division for Social Policy and Development - Department of Economic and Social Affairs
Ms Miriam Masaquiza
2 UN Plaza
New York, NY 10017
USA
masaquiza@un.org
>>> Report of the Workshop on Data Collection and Disaggregation for Indigenous Peoples
[
Adobe Acrobat (pdf)
]
The Workshop on Data Collection and Disaggregation for Indigenous Peoples was convened in accordance with Economic and Social Council decision 2003/300, following a recommendation of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues at its second session. Data collection was identified as an urgent priority by the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues at both its first and second sessions. In response to the Council’s decision the Workshop was held from 19 to 21 January 2004.
The Workshop was attended by 36 experts from the United Nations system and other intergovernmental organizations, Governments, indigenous organizations and academia. The Workshop discussed a number of case studies and examined challenges and made recommendations concerning data collection and disaggregation concerning indigenous peoples.
In its recommendations, the Workshop promotes better data collection and disaggregation concerning indigenous peoples for the consideration of the Permanent Forum at its third session.
2003
May 2003
May 2003
Closing Cultural Event
May 23 2003
This event was hosted by the NGO Committee on the Decade of the World's Indigenous Peoples (Mr. Roberto Mulato Borrero - Taino) and sponsored by this Committee, the Secretariat of the Permanent Forum, DPI and the American Museum of Natural History. It was opened by the Kahurangi Maori Dance Theatre from New Zealand, who performed a number of Maori dances and songs that conveyed traditional stories and beliefs, as well as the proud, warrior tradition of the Maori People. Their performance also highlighted the central place of Maori women in cultural expression, who performed their own elaborate dances and songs alongside the men.
El Grupo Cultural Nunkui from the Amazon region of Ecuador followed with a performance of their traditional dance to welcome visitors and greet strangers to their community. Ms Allison Warden from Alaska then performed a traditional Inuit dance, followed by some of her own contemporary songs about the struggle that many Indigenous Peoples experience when they try to establish their own identity and place in a multi-cultural society. Mr Roberto Borrero was inspired by the celebratory mood that prevailed, and gave an impromptu performance of a traditional Puerto Rican song of greeting to close the event.
Recommendations:
May 22 2003
Formation of an Independent International Commission of Indigenous Peoples for the Mediation and Resolution of Conflicts based on traditional resources and methods for the handling and resolution of conflicts and provide assistance whenever requested by indigenous peoples. Condemn the inhumane act in Democratic Republic of Congo because of which our indigenous sisters are suffering and dying and call for the immediate halt.
Condemn violence against indigenous women and girls and exercise due diligence to prevent, investigate and punish acts of violence against women, whether those acts are perpetrated by the State or by private persons.
Strengthen the role of indigenous women and ensure equal representation of indigenous women at all decision-making levels in national and international institutions which may make or influence policy with regard to matters related to peace-keeping, preventive diplomacy and related activities and in all stages of peace mediation and negotiations.
Take measure to reduce the excessive military expenditures including trade in arms, investment for arms productions and acquisition so as to permit the possible allocation of additional funds for social and economic development, in particular for the advancement of indigenous women.
Support, strengthen and promote the indigenous knowledge, tradition, customs and practices that contribute to conflict resolution.
Support and promote the implementation of the rights of self-determination of all peoples as enunciated, inter alia, in the Vienna Declaration and Programme of Action by providing special programmes in leadership and in training for decision-making.
Offer adequate protection and assistance to indigenous women and children displaced and find solutions to the root causes of their displacement with a view to preventing it and, when appropriate, facilitate their return or resettlement.
Request Permanent Forum to consider Indigenous Women as the theme for its 3rd Session, 2004.
UNDP and Indigenous Peoples: MDGs, Data Disaggregation and Human Rights
May 22 2003
This interactive panel discussion was chaired by Ms Alejandra Pero (UNDP CSO Chair) and hosted by UNDP (Mr. Eduardo Zepeda and Ms Tanni Mukhopadhyay). Other members of the panel were Mililani Trask (representing the Permanent Forum) and Anna Pinto (CORE). The event provided an opportunity to explore the opportunities by which UNDP can deepen its partnership with Indigenous Peoples, and how the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) can be a vehicle to address Indigenous Peoples' concerns.
Book Presentation: Indigenous Childhood in Mexico
May 22 2003
This book presentation was undertaken as part of a panel discussion on the situation confronting Indigenous children in Mexico. The panel was co-hosted by the Mexican Mission (Ambassador Adolfo Aguilar Zinser) and the Rigoberta Menchu Tum Foundation (RMTF). It was moderated by Mr. Raul Molina (Director, RMTF New York), who introduced the other members: UNICEF (Ms Elizabeth Gibbons); Mr. Marcus Matias (member of the Permanent Forum); Mr. Alfonso Alem Rojo (author of Indigenous Childhood in Mexico and Director, RMTF Mexico); and a young Mexican student. The panel opened discussions by referring to some of the main observations and conclusions contained in Indigenous Childhood in Mexico, noting that it is a significant contribution to the national debate about Mexico's acceptance of its Indigenous Peoples. As in many developing countries, Indigenous children in Mexico are on perhaps the lowest scale of the social structure, with girls facing even greater marginalisation and discrimination than boys. The panel discussed some of the root causes behind this situation, including the migration of parents in search of work and the forced displacement of entire families as a result of economic development or political unrest. The panel credited Mr. Rojo's book with providing some constructive recommendations regarding appropriate legal measures that could improve the situation of Indigenous children in Mexico.
Traditional Knowledge and Intellectual Property Regime
May 22 2003
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) hosted a lunchtime briefing to the Forum participants at its Coordination Office premises, which was chaired by Mr. O. Fasehun, Director. Mr. S. Rama Rao, Senior Counsellor, in his briefing addressed the topic "WIPO Process and Intellectual Property Rights", and focused on the areas of traditional knowledge, genetic resources and expressions of folklore from the perspective of intellectual property protection, and explained the work undertaken by WIPO starting from fact-finding in different countries and regions to the establishment of an Inter-Governmental Committee (IGC) and its ongoing work. He emphasized the inclusive nature of the process of WIPO's work and commitment to involve all stakeholders, explained the issue of participation of representatives of indigenous and local communities. The Coordination Office made available relevant documents to the participants. The participants included a number of indigenous and civil society representatives and other stakeholders. The presentation attracted substantive discussion on intellectual property issues of direct concern to the indigenous peoples. The participants raised issues relating to sovereignty of indigenous people on their territories and assets, suitability of existing IP system to indigenous issues, need for sui generis system of TK management, prior informed consent and funding of indigenous representatives in WIPO meetings, and protection of copyrights on indigenous music. The questions were answered by Mr. Rao who assured the representatives that the views expressed fairly reflected the stakeholders' position and due involvement in WIPO's work. Finally, Mr. Rao highlighted the vision and commitment of WIPO's Director General, Dr. Kamil Idris, to find practical solutions to intellectual property issues in the realm of traditional knowledge, genetic resources and folklore. For further information, please visit " www.wipo.int/globalissues/igc".
Indigenous Women and Peace Building
May 22 2003
This event was organized by the South Asia Indigenous Women's Forum and Nepal Tamang Women Ghedung, with support from IWGIA. It was facilitated by Ms Stella Tamang, and the panelists were Vicky Tauli Corpuz (Philippines), Leonor Zalabata (Columbia); and Lucy Mulenkei (Kenya). ps@tamang.wlink.com.np All too often indigenous women are the victims of many conflicts. Aggression, foreign occupation, ethnic and various forms of conflicts are an ongoing reality affecting indigenous women in all regions. Armed conflicts continue to occur in many parts of the world and have escalated over the last decade. Indigenous peoples have had their land snatched away, their resources robbed, their languages banned, their culture destroyed, their existence rejected and their fundamental rights denied.
All manner of conflicts gender conflicts, conflicts for civil and political rights, conflicts against colonization, globalization, national security, terrorism, armed conflicts subjugate indigenous women and girls. Exclusion, suppression, exploitation and a dearth of power are the harsh realities of indigenous women and girls. Rape of women and girls by parties to conflict which occur with impunity.
Prompted to take some action on the above concerns the South Asia Indigenous Women Forum SAIWF and Nepal Tamang Women Ghedung jointly organized the panel discussion on "IndigenousWomen and Peace Building", on May 22nd, 2003 at 13.00 hrs at United Nation as side event during the 2nd Session of UN Permanent forum On Indigenous Issues. The cost for the hall and the interpreters was supported by IWGIA. Indigenous women because of their practices, tradition and culture in resolving conflicts, were invited to discuss issues of peace building.
Stella Tamang of Nepal was the facilitator and the panelists were:
Victoria Tauli Corpuz
Lucy Mulenkei
Leonor Zalabata/Maria Eugenia Choque
Ms. Njuma Ekundanayo, Member, Permanent Forum
Mililani Trask, Vice President, Permanent forum Member
This side event was very successful and was attended by many indigenous women and men, state representatives and representatives of the UN Agencies. The panel discussion was very interactive and lively. It is regretted that Leonor Zalabata could not attend and Maria Eugenia presented on her behalf.
Indigenous Sports - the Upcoming World Festival of Traditional Games and Sports
May 21 2003
Mr. Willie Littlechild hosted this briefing on behalf of the Permanent Forum. The principal speaker was Mr. Pierre-Luc Brodeur, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the 2004 World Festival of Traditional Games and Sports. Mr. Brodeur explained that a small group of individuals concerned about the physical condition of the world's population established the Trim and Fitness International Sport for All Association (TAFISA) in 1990, and held the first World Festival of Traditional Games and Sports in 1994. TAFISA is now in the planning stages for the fourth such games in August 2004 in Montreal, Canada. In recognition of the sporting prowess of Indigenous Peoples, and their significant contribution to the development of sports that are now practiced by thousands of players around the world, TAFISA hopes the 2004 Games will provide Indigenous peoples an opportunity to showcase their sports and games as well as their cultures. In addition to demonstrations and competitive events, the Festival also provides an opportunity for a range of cultural events and workshops to encourage people to try new sports and appreciate other cultures. TAFISA has established an Indigenous Advisory Committee and is working closely with the Mohawk Council of Kahnawake, the Assembly of First Nations of Canada, the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, Makivik Corporation, the Metis National Council and the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador. Through sponsorship of the event, organizers are able to host delegations of up to 10 people for the duration of their stay to participate in the Games. For further information about the Games and to apply for registration of a delegation, visit www.jeuxdumonde.ca
World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development
May 21 2003
This event was co-hosted by UNESCO (UN Representative, Mr. Jones Kyazze) and Yachay Wasi (President, Mr. Luis Delgado) to celebrate World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development. Panelists included H.E. Mr. Gert Rosenthal (President, ECOSOC), Ms. Njuma Ekundanayo (Permanent Forum), and Commissioner Sayu Bhojwani (Major's Office of Immigrant Affairs, New York City).
To promote the linguistic heritage of humanity and raise awareness about the vast number of languages that are endangered, UNESCO, UN Works and the Discovery Communications Inc. joined forces to co-produce a documentary about nine of these languages and the people who speak them. The documentary is also being screened on the Discovery Channel to raise awareness about this issue with its 100 million viewers internationally. Following the screening of the short film, the participants heard from the panelists about the range of initiatives they are involved in to promote languages as a key means of safeguarding, transmitting and promoting cultural heritage. There was an opportunity for some questions and feedback from the participants. For more information, visit www.unesco.org and www.un.org/works
Indigenous Peoples Permanent Delegation to the United Nations
May 21 2003
Mr. Kenneth Deer on behalf of the Indigenous Peoples Caucus hosted this event. Mr. Deer briefed participants on the increasing involvement of Indigenous Peoples in the work of the United Nations as more Agencies and treaty bodies begin to deal directly with Indigenous issues or matters affecting Indigenous Peoples. Whilst there is now a Secretariat to the Permanent Forum based in New York, he pointed out that a permanent office representing Indigenous interests in Geneva would enable Indigenous peoples to have an ongoing voice on issues of concern to them as many of the relevant international agencies and organizations are based in Geneva. A permanent delegation would also assist in better coordination, support, monitoring and follow-up on Indigenous meetings, strategies and activities associated with the work of the UN. Mr. Deer updated participants on the current status of this proposal, outlining some of the obstacles that remain, as well as some of the grounds for optimism. For further information, contact ippdgeneva@yahoo.com
Indigenous Peoples' Religious Freedom and Sacred Lands
May 21 2003
This event was co-hosted by the Non-Governmental Organizations Committee on Freedom of Religion or Belief (Moderator, Mr. Matt Cherry), the Association on American Indian Affairs Sacred Lands Protection Program (Coordinator, Mr. Guy Lopez) and the International Indian Treaty Council (Mr. Alberto Salamando, General Counsel).
The speakers engaged with the participants in a healthy debate about how Indigenous ways of knowing, being and doing can gain greater prominence and acceptance as a means of ensuring the ongoing protection and appreciation of what is sacred in Indigenous cultures. Some of the concepts that were touched upon included the subtle and indirect means by which language can foster racism and ongoing discrimination; the way in which religions have created division by devaluing 'difference'; and the principle of reciprocity and sharing that underpins many Indigenous cultures. It was noted that whilst the sharing of Indigenous cultures and spirituality can act as a bridge to mutual understanding and respect, it could also expose Indigenous Peoples to new forms of exploitation and appropriation. Tourism was highlighted as a prime example of