NEWS
ECOSOC decision on Report of 7th. Session of UNPFII
July 25, 2008
On Thursday 24 July the Economic and Social Council adopted all three draft decisions contained in the Report on the Seventh Session of the Permanent Forum, authorizing a three day international expert group meeting, deciding that the eighth session of the Forum shall be held at UN Headquarters from 18 to 29 May 2009, and approving the provisional agenda.
On Thursday 24 July the Economic and Social Council adopted all three draft decisions contained in the Report on the Seventh Session of the Permanent Forum, authorizing a three day international expert group meeting, deciding that the eighth session of the Forum shall be held at UN Headquarters from 18 to 29 May 2009, and approving the provisional agenda.
All three draft decisions are contained in the Report on the Seventh Session of the Permanent Forum in document E/2008/43. Please note that final ECOSOC decision numbers will be provided at a later date.
Draft decision I
International expert group meeting on the implementation of article 42 of the
United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous PeoplesThe Economic and Social Council decides to authorize a three-day
international expert group meeting on the implementation of article 42 of the United
Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and requests that the
results of the meeting be reported to the Permanent Forum at its eighth session.
Draft decision II
Venue and dates of the eighth session of the Permanent Forum on
Indigenous IssuesThe Economic and Social Council decides that the eighth session of the
Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues shall be held at United Nations
Headquarters in New York from 18 to 29 May 2009.
Draft decision III
Provisional agenda and documentation for the eighth session of the
Permanent Forum on Indigenous IssuesThe Economic and Social Council approves the following provisional agenda
and documentation for the eighth session of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous
Issues:
1. Election of officers.
2. Adoption of the agenda and organization of work.
3. Follow-up to the recommendations of the Permanent Forum on:
(a) Economic and social development;
(b) Indigenous women;
(c) Second International Decade of the World’s Indigenous People.
4. Human rights:
(a) Implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of
Indigenous Peoples;
(b) Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human
rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous peoples and other
special rapporteurs.
5. Half-day discussion on the Arctic.
6. Comprehensive dialogue with six United Nations agencies and funds.
7. Future work of the Permanent Forum, including issues of the Economic
and Social Council and emerging issues.
8. Draft agenda for the ninth session of the Permanent Forum.
9. Adoption of the report of the Permanent Forum on its eighth session
ECOSOC Elections for UNPFII membership
July 17, 2008
In the elections that occurred in ECOSOC on 16 July for the replacement of the Ms Xiaomei Qin from the Asia/Pacific region after the end of this year, the result was:
Mr Eugenio A. Insigne (Philippines) 22 votes
Ambassador Berenado Vunibobo (Fiji) 18 votes
Thus, Mr. Eugenio A. Insigne from the Philippines, will become a member of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues as of 1 January 2009.
Application forms for 2009 Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Populations
July 3, 2008
2009 applications forms for the UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Populations are available.
2009 applications forms for the UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Populations are available here.
The fund provides financial assistance to indigenous delegates wishing to attend the 2nd session of the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the 8th session of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.
Please be kindly reminded that the deadline for applying is 1st October 2008.
If you need more information, please click here.
International Day of the World´s Indigenous People
July 3, 2008
The International Day of the World´s Indigenous People will be observed at United Nations Headquarters on Friday 8 August in the Dag Hammarskjöld Auditorium, from 10:00 to 13:00.
The International Day of the World´s Indigenous People will be observed at United Nations Headquarters on Friday 8 August in the Dag Hammarskjöld Auditorium, from 10:00 to 13:00. It is organized by the Secretariat of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues in cooperation with the NGO Committee on the International Decade of the World's Indigenous Peoples and the New York office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.
Those who wish to attend the observance are required to register by 30 July. Seats are limited and will be made available at a first come, first serve basis. Those who wish to attend the program are encouraged to register as soon as possible.
To register, please send your name and organizational affiliation to tribal.link@lycos.com
Please note that those who have not registered by 30 July will not be able to attend.
Those who have valid UN grounds passes do not need to register.
The event will begin at 10:00 in the DHL Auditorium. Participants must enter the UN grounds through the Visitor´s Entrance on 1st. Avenue facing 45th. Street. After going through the entrance, participants should go directly to the table where volunteers will hand out day passes to those who have registered. Day passes will be available at the table from 9:00 until 10:15. It is essential that participants bring photo ID when picking up their day passes.
The agenda for the day´s events is not yet complete, but events will include messages from the United Nations Secretary General, the Under-Secretary General for Economic and Social Affiars and the Chariperson of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, performances by indigenous artists, and a panel discussion related to conciliation and reconciliation efforts between indigenous peoples and governments.
The Panel Discussion is also a part of the New Human Rights Dialogue Series, commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Please keep checking our International Day page for updates on the International Day's programme.
DPI/NGO Conference 3-5 September in Paris
June 30, 2008
The 61st Annual Conference for Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) associated with the United Nations Department of Public Information (DPI), will be held in Paris at UNESCO Headquarters from Wednesday, 3 September to Friday, 5 September 2008.
The 61st Annual Conference for Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) associated with the United Nations Department of Public Information (DPI), will be held in Paris at UNESCO Headquarters from Wednesday, 3 September to Friday, 5 September 2008.
To mark the sixtieth anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, this year’s Conference is entitled “Reaffirming Human Rights for All: The Universal Declaration at 60”.
Please click here to find information and register.
Report of the Seventh Session
June 19, 2008
The final report on the seventh session is available in all languages.
The final report on the seventh session is available in all languages. [AR | EN | ES | FR | RU | ZH]
James Anaya Special Rapporteur
March 27, 2008
On Wednesday 26 March, the Human Rights Council adopted, during its 7th session, and without a vote, the list of candidates for special procedures mandate holders proposed by the President of the Council.
On Wednesday 26 March, the Human Rights Council adopted, during its 7th session, and without a vote, the list of candidates for special procedures mandate holders proposed by the President of the Council. The list includes the name of the new Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people,
Prof. S. James Anaya, from the University of Arizona (United States). The current mandate-holder, Prof. Rodolfo Stavenhagen, will continue holding the mandate until Prof. Anaya assumes it in the following weeks.
Human Rights Council Expert mechanism on the rights of indigenous peoples
March 24, 2008
The Human Rights Council has decided in Resolution 6/36 to establish a subsidiary mechanism to provide thematic expertise on the rights of indigenous peoples. The mechanism will be composed of 5 independent experts and all positions are vacant. Deadline for nominations is 11 April 2008.
The Human Rights Council has decided in Resolution 6/36 to establish a subsidiary mechanism to provide thematic expertise on the rights of indigenous peoples. The mechanism will be composed of 5 independent experts and all positions are vacant. Deadline for nominations is 11 April 2008.
Further information may be found in this note verbale from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and on the OHCHR website, which has all of the relevant information including the standardized form for candidates.
Friday 11 April - Seminar for Members of Permanent Missions to the United Nations:
March 14, 2008
Organized by the Secretariat of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues/DSPD/UNDESA
Organized by the Secretariat of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues/DSPD/UNDESA
Friday 11 April 2008
Venue: Conference Room (tbc)
Seminar Objective:
As stipulated by the Economic and Social Council’s resolution (ECOSOC Res. 2000/22), one of the mandates of the United Nations Permanent Forum (Permanent Forum) is to raise the awareness and promote the integration and coordination of activities relating to indigenous peoples’ issues within the United Nations system. In doing so, the Permanent Forum has been working with Member States to advance the understanding of indigenous peoples’ issues and to engage governments and the intergovernmental system in its efforts.
The seminar aims to:
• Raise awareness and understanding of indigenous issues among representatives of Member States,
• Provide information and analysis of substantive and recent work by the Permanent Forum and United Nations agencies on various important indigenous peoples’ issues;
• Enhance communication with governments on indigenous peoples’issues;
• Provide an overview of the forthcoming session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.
Programme
MORNING
Panel on Indigenous Peoples and Climate Change
10.00 - 10.30 Welcome and introduction of participants
Ms. Elsa Stamatopoulou, Chief, the Secretariat of the UNPFII
10.30– 11.00 Overview of 7th Session of Permanent Forum
Ms. Elsa Stamatopoulou, Chief, the Secretariat of the UNPFII
11.00 – 12.00 Panel on the work undertaken by United Nations agencies on Indigenous Peoples and Climate Change
12.00 – 13.00 Discussion
Moderator: Sonia Smallacombe
AFTERNOON
Panel on work undertaken by United Nations agencies on Indigenous Peoples’ Languages
15.00 - 15.30 How indigenous peoples have opened the door of the United Nations?
Tonya Frichner, American Indian Law Alliance.
15.30 - 16.30 Panel on Indigenous Peoples’ Languages
16.30- 17.30 Discussion
17.45- 18.00 Wrap up
Moderator: Elsa Stamatopoulou
MDG Reports and Indigenous Peoples, vol. 3
March 3, 2008
SPFII has issued its third review of National Millennium Development Goal Reports.
This desk review aims to analyze recent achievements and challenges of indigenous
peoples by examining available data contained in a diverse selection of Millennium
Development Goals (MDG) country reports.
SPFII has issued its third review of National Millennium Development Goal Reports.
This desk review aims to analyze recent achievements and challenges of indigenous
peoples by examining available data contained in a diverse selection of Millennium
Development Goals (MDG) country reports.
Building upon similar analyses previously undertaken by the Secretariat a total of ten
country reports were reviewed this year from a broad range of countries in which
indigenous peoples live. The reports reviewed are the latest available for each of the
following countries, ranging in date of publication from 2004 to 2007: Guyana (2007),
Kenya (2005), Myanmar (2005), Nepal (2005), Russian Federation (2005), South Africa
(2005), Suriname (2005), Thailand (2004), Vietnam (2005), and Zimbabwe (2004).
Click here to download the whole document (in pdf. format).
Australia Apologizes to Indigenous Peoples
February 14, 2008
On Wednesday 13th February, the Prime Minister of Australia delivered an historic formal apology to Australia's indigenous peoples for past wrongs. The apology was delivered in Parliament's House of Representatives to members of the Stolen Generation gathered inside Parliament House...
On Wednesday 13th February, the Prime Minister of Australia delivered an historic formal apology to Australia's indigenous peoples for past wrongs. The apology was delivered in Parliament's House of Representatives to members of the Stolen Generation gathered inside Parliament House and to thousands of Australians gathered before huge television screens in all capital cities, TV sets in homes across the nation and on-line news for the many Australian living overseas. The Prime Minister's Speech began with:
"Mr Speaker, I move that today we honour the indigenous peoples of this land, the oldest continuing cultures in human history." Mr Rudd, the Prime Minister also said in this 30 minute speech "We reflect on their past mistreatment, we reflect in particular on the mistreatment of those who were stolen generations - this blemished chapter in our national history. The time has now come for the nation to turn a new page."..."Our nation Australia has reached such a time and that is why the parliament is today here assembled," ... "To deal with this unfinished business of the nation."
For many Australians, this was, and will continue to be a very historical and moving moment in their country.
See also:
Mick Dodson´s article in the Age
Bringing them Home: Report of the National Inquiry into the Separation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children from Their Families
Pre-sessional meeting of the Permanent Forum 12-14 February
February 13, 2008
The Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues meets for its annual pre-sessional meeting in Madrid, 12-14 February. Amongst the items of the agenda, is the programme of work for the seventh session of UNPFII, which will be posted on this site as soon as possible.
United Nations Development Group Guidelines on Indigenous Peoples´ Issues
February 11, 2008
The United Nations Development Group (UNDG) has adopted guidelines to assist the UN system to mainstream and integrate indigenous peoples´ issues in processes for operational activities and programmes at the country level.
The United Nations Development Group (UNDG) has adopted guidelines to assist the UN system to mainstream and integrate indigenous peoples´ issues in processes for operational activities and programmes at the country level.
These guidelines set out the broad normative, policy and operational framework for implementing a human rights based and culturally sensitive approach to development for and with indigenous peoples, providing lines of action for planning, implementation and evaluation of programmes involving indigenous peoples. Furthermore, the guidelines provide a framework for integrating the principles of cultural diversity into UN country programmes.
International Expert Group Meeting on Indigenous Peoples and Climate Change, 2 -4 April 2008, Darwin, Australia.
January 22, 2008
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.
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 Studies, 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 Studies, email: noa@ias.unu.edu
Click here ti view the documents from the meeting.
Expert Group Meeting on Indigenous Languages 8-10 January 2008, UN Headquarters, Conference Room 7
January 3, 2008
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.
The EGM will be attended by indigenous experts, UNPFII members as well as interested Member States, UN Agencies, Indigenous Peoples' Organizatinos, Non-Governmental Organizations.
As of Friday 4 January, registration is closed.Practical information for participants The Meeting will begin at 10 AM on Tuesday 8 January in Conference Room 7 at UN Headquarters. Participants who have already registered and who do not have UN passes must enter the UN through the Visitor's Entrance at 1st. Avenue and 45th. Street. After going through security, participants should look for a table in the Lobby with a UNPFII sign, where they can pick up their passes, which are necessary to have access to the conference rooms.
Passes must be picked up between 9 and 10 AM on Tuesday morning in Lobby of the Visitors' Entrance.The meeting times will be the following throughout the three days.
Morning Session: 10 AM - 1 PM
Afternoon Session 3 PM - 6 PM
Contact: Broddi Sigurdarson email: sigurdarson[at]un.org
Click here to view the documents related to the meeting.
Appointment of new Special Rapporteur
December 27, 2007
The new Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people is expected to be appointed by the HRC during its 7th session in March 2008.
The new Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people is expected to be appointed by the HRC during its 7th session in March 2008.
Candidatures may be submitted by Governments, regional groups, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, other human rights bodies, and individuals to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). For further information and a standardized form for candidates go to the OHCHR website.
Happy Holidays
December 18, 2007
The Secretariat of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues wishes you happy holidays. May 2008 bring you and yours peace and happiness, good health and prosperity.
Avec nos meilleurs voeux.
Felices festividades.
Victoria Tauli-Corpuz at Bali Climate Change Conference
December 12, 2007
Victoria Tauli-Corpuz, Chairperson of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues is at the United Nations Conference on Climate Change in Bali, where she is advocating for the rights of indigenous peoples throughout the world.
Victoria Tauli-Corpuz, Chairperson of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues is at the United Nations Conference on Climate Change in Bali, where she is advocating for the rights of indigenous peoples throughout the world.
On 11 December, at an event on the World Bank Forest Carbon Partnership Facility on, a funding mechanism aimed at preserving forests, Ms. Tauli Corpuz raised a number of concerns, many of which are related to indigenous peoples' negative experiences with similar initatives of the past. She emphasized the the importance of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the principle of free prior and informed consent as the basic frameworks for any initiatives that affect indigenous peoples. Click here to view the entire statement.
At another event, she stated that indigenous peoples are impacted not only by climate change, but also by some of the solutions to it, including carpon sequestration and agrofuel plantations.
On that issue, Ms. Tauli Corpuz and Mr. Parshuram Tamang presented a paper to the Sixth Session of the Permanent Forum, entitled Oil Palm and Other Commercial Tree Plantations, Monocropping: Impacts on Indigenous Peoples’ Land Tenure and Resource Management Systems and Livelihoods.
Pre-registration for Seventh Session open
November 13, 2007
The Seventh Session of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues will take place at United Nations Headquarters, in New York, from 21 April to 2 May 2008. The special theme will be "Climate change, bio-cultural diversity and livelihoods: the stewardship role of indigenous peoples and new challenges."
The Seventh Session of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues will take place at United Nations Headquarters, in New York, from 21 April to 2 May 2008. The special theme will be "Climate change, bio-cultural diversity and livelihoods: the stewardship role of indigenous peoples and new challenges."
Pre-registration is open to indigenous peoples' organizations, academic institutions and NGOs with ECOSOC consultative status on the Seventh Session webpage,
Renewal of the mandate of the Special Rapporteur
October 24, 2007
The Human Rights Council has decided to extend the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the situation on human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people for a period of three years.
Last month the Human Rights Council decided to extend the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on the situation on human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people for a period of three years.
The full text of the mandate is contained in document A/HRC/6/L.26.
Indigenous Issues at the Third Committee of the General Assembly
October 23, 2007
On Monday 22 October, the Third Committee of the GA discussed indigenous issues and the Second Decade of the World´s Indigenous People as agenda item 67, under the theme Promotion of human rights.
Human Rights Council - NGO Engagement with Universal Periodic Review
October 15, 2007
The Human Rights Council will undertake its first review session in April 2008, reviewing 16 countries: Bahrain, Ecuador, Tunisia, Morocco, Indonesia, Finland, United Kingdom, India, Brazil, Philippines, Algeria, Poland, Netherlands,South Africa, Czech Republic and Argentina.
NGOs and Indigenous Peoples' Organizations wishing to submit pertinent human rights information to the HRC can do so by following the instructions of a recently issued information note from the Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights.
The Human Rights Council will undertake its first review session in April 2008, reviewing 16 countries: Bahrain, Ecuador, Tunisia, Morocco, Indonesia, Finland, United Kingdom, India, Brazil, Philippines, Algeria, Poland, Netherlands,South Africa, Czech Republic and Argentina.
NGOs and Indigenous Peoples' Organizationswishing to submit pertinent human rights information to the HRC can do so by following the instructions of a recently issued information note from the Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights.
Click here to view the Information Note, which includes background information on the UPR, a list of upcoming UPR sessions and specific information for NGOs wishing to submit information to the HCR. According to the note, a tentative deadline for submissions relating to the first UPR session in April, has been set as 30 October 2007.
Workshop on Perspectives of Relationships between Indigenous Peoples and Industrial Companies
September 24, 2007
The International Workshop on Perspectives of Relationships between Indigenous Peoples and Industrial Companies was held in Salekhard, Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, Russian Federation on 2 and 3 July 2007.
The International Workshop on Perspectives of Relationships between Indigenous Peoples and Industrial Companies was held in Salekhard, Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, Russian Federation on 2 and 3 July 2007.
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 documents from the Workshop
Adopted - Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
September 13, 2007
The General Assembly adopted the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples today, Thursday September 13, by a vote of 144 in favour, 4 against and 11 abstensions.
Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
September 12, 2007
A draft resolution to adopt the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples will be presented at the 107th. plenary meeting of General Assembly on Thursday 13 September. The plenary meeting, in the General Assembly hall begins at 10 a.m. The resolution to adopt the Declaration will be item no. 6 on the agenda.
A draft resolution to adopt the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples will be presented at the 107th. plenary meeting of General Assembly on Thursday 13 September. The plenary meeting, in the General Assembly hall begins at 10 a.m. The resolution to adopt the Declaration will be item no. 6 on the agenda, which is available online in the UN Journal.
The deadline to apply for special passes to attend the meeting passed on September 11. It is not possible to provide UN grounds passes to those who did not apply to SPFII by Septemer 11. However, UN Webcast will be covering the event.
>>>The draft resolution to adopt the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
(This pdf document includes the whole text of the Declaration)
[AR] [EN] [ES] [FR] [RU] [ZH]
Access to GA Hall on 13 Sept, day of consideration of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples by the Assembly
September 6, 2007
All persons who wish to attend, should send their name, organizational affiliation and contacts to the Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
The Secretariat of the Forum, in consultation with UN Security and UN Protocol wishes to convey the following information regarding the above:
--All persons who wish to attend, should send their name, organizational affiliation and contacts to the Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, Ms Luz Aragon, aragonm@un.org the latest by Tuesday, 11 September 2007, noon.
--On the 13th of September, the General Assembly meeting starts at 10am. Persons wishing to enter and who have given their names beforehand to Ms Aragon, should proceed through the Visitors’ Entrance of the UN Headquarters building on 1st avenue across from 45th street. They should go through the white tent through Security and then arrive at the Reception Desk area (please allow at least 30 minutes for this process). In the proximity of the Reception Desk the Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues will have a table in order to give out the passes to the persons who have sent their names to us. Please carry your identification card with your picture.
--The item on the Declaration is the third in the sequence of items starting at 10am that day. It is expected that the Declaration discussion will start before noon. It is important for observers to enter the UN building in a timely fashion and take their seats in the General Hall, given the time required to go through Security and accreditation.
--The public will be seated in the Public Gallery on the 4th floor of the General Assembly Hall.
--Indigenous Chiefs, Elders and Regional Indigenous Caucus Coordinators will also be provided with a special pass and be seated in Section A of the General Assembly Hall on the 2nd floor. Please inform us of the names of persons who fall under the above category so that we can request the special passes.
MEDIA ARRANGEMENTS: Journalists without UN accreditation who wish to attend the event should follow the instructions for obtaining accreditation at www.un.org/media/accreditation All journalists, once accredited, who wish to film within the General Assembly Hall must report to the Office of Media Accreditation and Liaison, Room S-250A in the UN Secretariat building beforehand and an officer will escort them to the media booths.
Declaration Breakthrough
September 5, 2007
SPFII has been informed that a delegation from Mexico, Peru and Guatemala met today (Friday August 31) with the global indigenous caucus, delivering the indigenous leadership a revised text which is to be submitted to the General Assembly for adoption on September 13 (date to be confirmed).
SPFII has been informed that a delegation from Mexico, Peru and Guatemala met today (Friday August 31) with the global indigenous caucus, delivering the indigenous representatives a revised Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which is to be submitted to the General Assembly for adoption on 13 September.
This text is based on an agreement reached between the co-sponsors (67 countries) of the Declaration and the African Group of States (53 countries).
Click here to view the revised text of the Declaration.
Trust Fund - Grants awarded and call for new project proposals
September 4, 2007
In May 2007, the Bureau of the Permanent Forum, acting as the Advisory Group for the Trust Fund met to consider 78 project proposals. Of those, 20 were awarded this year. This marks the end of the 2007 cycle and the beginning of the 2008 cycle. The next round of calls for project proposals is now open.
In May 2007, the Bureau of the Permanent Forum, acting as the Advisory Group for the Trust Fund met to consider 78 project proposals. Of those, 20 were awarded this year.
This marks the end of the 2007 cycle and the beginning of the 2008 cycle. The next round of calls for project proposals is now open.
Applications for the next round of Trust Fund grants are open now and the closing deadline is 1 November 2006. There will be no exceptions made for proposals submitted after the deadline.
Click here to read more.
Recommendations from the Forum´s sixth session
August 29, 2007
The Secretariat of the Permanent Forum has analyzed the recommendations made by the Forum at its sixth session and has prepared a spreadsheet identifying the distribution of recommendations by addressee (UN Agencies, Member States, NGOs, etc.).
The Secreriat of the permanent forum has analyzed the recommendations made by the Forum at its sixth session and has prepared a spreadsheet identifying the distribution of recommendations by addressee (UN Agencies, Member States, NGOs, etc.). The spreadsheet (which should be read in conjunction with the
6th Session report) is available
here.
UNPFII Special Rapporteurs' Reports - call for feedback
August 23, 2007
At its Fifth Session, the Permanent Forum appointed a number of its Members as Special Rapporteurs, who were requested to submit papers on specific themes to the Forum at its Sixth Session in May 2007...
At its Fifth Session, the Permanent Forum appointed a number of its Members as Special Rapporteurs, who were requested to submit papers on specific themes to the Forum at its Sixth Session in May 2007. A year later, at its Sixth session, the Permanent Forum recommneded that further analysis be undertaken on the issues discussed in two the two following reports:
Victoria Tauli-Corpuz & Parshuram Tamang Oil Palm and Other Commercial Tree Plantations, Monocropping: Impacts on Indigenous Peoples' Land Tenure and Resource Management Systems and Livelihoods
Michael Dodson Indigenous Traditional Knowledge
Now SPFII is calling for comments and feedback. Click here to read more.
Special Event at the X Session of the Regional Conference on Women in Quito, Ecuador
August 21, 2007
On the occasion of the X Session of the Regional Conference on Women to be held from 6 to 9 August 2007, a special event entitled " Citizenship and Rights of Indigenous and Afro-descendant Women" will be organized by UNDP, UNIFEM, INSTRAW and the Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.
August 8, 2007, ECLAC
On the occasion of the X Session of the Regional Conference on Women to be held from 6 to 9 August 2007, a special event entitled " Citizenship and Rights of Indigenous and Afro-descendant Women" will be organized by UNDP, UNIFEM, INSTRAW and the Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.
Speakers include: Otilia Lux de Coti, Member of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, Margarita Antonio, Indigenous leader from Central America; Maria Ines Barbosa, Afro-descendant lider from Brazil.
Moderated by: Mirian Masaquiza, Secretariat of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.
Quito Consensus adopted by the X Conference [EN] [ES]
International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples
July 20, 2007
International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples: Honoring Indigenous Youth, Languages and Sacred Sites. Thursday August 9, 2007.
Venue: United Nations Secretariat Building (Visitor's Entrance at 45th. Street and 1st. Avenue)
Press Conference, Wednesday 18 July, 1:15 PM, The Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples: Where do we stand?
July 13, 2007
Participants will brief the press on the latest developments regarding the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, including the Facilitator's report to the President of the General Assembly. The Declaration is being considered for adoption by the General Assembly during its 61st session.
Participants will brief the press on the latest developments regarding the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, including the Facilitator's report to the President of the General Assembly. The Declaration is being considered for adoption by the General Assembly during its 61st session.
A recording of the press conference can be viewed here. Note, you need RealPlayer to veiw it.
International Expert Group Meeting in Indigenous Peoples and Protection of the Environment
July 5, 2007
This meeting, which takes place in Khabarovsk, Russian Federation, 27-29 August 2007, will be hosted by the Government of Khabarovsk, the Association of Indigenous Peoples of the Russian North, Siberia and the Far East (RAIPON) in the Russian Federation and co-organized by the Government of Khabarovsk, RAIPON and the Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.
This meeting, which takes place in Khabarovsk, Russian Federation, 27-29 August 2007, will be hosted by the Government of Khabarovsk, the Association of Indigenous Peoples of the Russian North, Siberia and the Far East (RAIPON) in the Russian Federation and co-organized by the Government of Khabarovsk, RAIPON and the Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.
The objective of the meeting is 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.
Press Conference, Thursday 24 May at 1:30
May 23, 2007
Ms. Victoria Tauli-Corpuz, Chairperson of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, and Mr. Wilton Littlechild, Member of the Permanent Forum, will brief the press on the outcome and recommendations of this session - which had the special theme of Lands, Territories and Natural Resources - and will provide an update on the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Logo competition for the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
May 2, 2007
The Bureau of the Permanent Forum has chosen the artwork made by Rebang Dewan, a Chackma child from Bangladesh, 11 years old as the visual identifier of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.
The Bureau of the Permanent Forum has chosen the artwork made by Rebang Dewan, a Chackma child from Bangladesh, 11 years old as the visual identifier of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.
At the Second Session of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (held in 2003) where Indigenous Children was the special theme, the Forum adopted a series of recommendations on indigenous children and also decided to organize an indigenous youth art competition for the design of a logo for the Forum and announced it at the sixth session.
Election of UNPFII members (2008-2010)
April 27, 2007
Government nominated members of the Permanent Forum were recently elected by the Economic and Social Council. They will serve for a period of three years, starting 1 January 2008 until 31 December 2010. The newly elected members are:
Government nominated members of the Permanent Forum were recently elected by the Economic and Social Council. They will serve for a period of three years, starting 1 January 2008 until 31 December 2010. The newly elected members are:
ASIAN STATES
Ms Xiaomei Qin (China)
Ms Paimaneh Hasteh (Islamic Republic of Iran)
LATIN AMERICAN AND CARIBBEAN STATES
Mr. Carlos Mamani Condori (Bolivia)
WESTERN EUROPEAN AND OTHER STATES
Mr. Bartolomé Clavero Salvador (Spain)
Mr. Carsten Smith (Norway)
AFRICAN STATES
Ms Liliane Muzangi Mbela (DRC)
Mr Simeon Adewale Adekanye (Nigeria)
EASTERN EUROPEAN STATES
Mr A A Nikiforov (Russian Federation)
Appointment of UNPFII members (2008-2010)
April 20, 2007
The President of the Economic and Social Council has appointed eight members of the Permanent Forum who will serve for a period of three years, from 1 January 2008 until 31 December 2010. These eight members were nominated by indigenous peoples organizations.
The President of the Economic and Social Council has appointed eight members of the Permanent Forum who will serve for a period of three years, from 1 January 2008 until 31 December 2010. These eight members were nominated by indigenous peoples organizations.
The members are the following:
AFRICA
Mr. Hassan Id Balkassm (Morocco)
Ms. Margaret Lokawua (Uganda)
ASIA
Ms. Victoria Tauli-Corpuz (Philippines)
ARCTIC
Mr. Lars-Anders Baer (Sweden)
CENTRAL AND SOUTH AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN
Ms. Elisa Canqui Mollo (Bolivia)
CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE, RUSSIAN FEDERATION, CENTRAL ASIA AND TRANSCAUCAUSIA
Mr. Pavel Sulyandziga (Russian Federation)
NORTH AMERICA
Ms. Tonya Gonella Frischner (United States of America)
PACIFIC
Mr. Michael Dodson (Australia).
Seminar for Member States delegates on the Forum, April 17 Conference Room 7
April 17, 2007
The Seminar on How to work with the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues for Memberber States delegates, to be organized by the Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (SPFII).
April 17, 10:00 - 13:00 and 15:00-18:00
Conference Room 7
The Seminar on “How to work with the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues?” for Member States delegates will be organized by the Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (SPFII).
April 17, 10:00 - 13:00 and 15:00-18:00
Conference Room 7
Those delegates of Missions who are interested are invited to register with the Secretariat at the following contacts. The limitation of places is 40 on the basis of first come, first serve.
Tel: 917 367 5100
Fax: 917 367 5102
Email: IndigenousPermanentForum@un.org
Pre-registration for Sixth Session Deadline
April 16, 2007
Please note pre-registrations for all new Indigenous Peoples' Organizations (IPOs) and Academics who will be attending the UNPFII Session for the first time will close at the end of the day on Wednesday 25th April 2007 .
Please note pre-registrations for all new Indigenous Peoples' Organizations (IPOs) and Academics who will be attending the UNPFII Session for the first time will close at the end of the day on Wednesday 25th April 2007 .You will not be able to pre-register after this date. Pre-registration will remain open for IPOs and Academics that have attended previous sessions, as well as NGOs with ECOSOC Status, until further notice.
MDG Reports and Indigenous Peoples
March 27, 2007
SPFII has just finished its second review of a select number of MDG Country Reports as per indigenous peoples. The objectives of these reviews are to analyze to what extent indigenous peoples´ issues are addressed included and promoted within the context of the Millennium Development Goals.
SPFII has just finished its second review of a select number of MDG Country Reports as per indigenous peoples. The objectives of these reviews are to analyze to what extent indigenous peoples´ issues are addressed included and promoted within the context of the Millennium Development Goals.
The first issue looked at a number of Reports which were available in English, while the second volume analyzes MDG Country reports from Latin America. The reviews are available on the SPFII Publications page and on the MDG page.
Indigenous Peoples´ Assistance Facility at IFAD
March 9, 2007
IFAD and the World Bank have signed an agreement to transfer the Indigenous Peoples Assistance Facility to IFAD, which will administer the Facility for the first time this year.
The Facility invites applications from indigenous peoples organizations and communities, as well as organizations that work with them, for grants to fund projects, innovative approaches and partnerships that promote the development of indigenous peoples and help them fulfil their aspirations.
IFAD and the World Bank have signed an agreement to transfer the Indigenous Peoples Assistance Facility to IFAD, which will administer the Facility for the first time this year.
The Facility invites applications from indigenous peoples’ organizations and communities, as well as organizations that work with them, for grants to fund projects, innovative approaches and partnerships that promote the development of indigenous peoples and help them fulfil their aspirations.
Grants range from US$10,000 to US$30,000. Applicants must meet specific requirements and their proposals should respond to the needs of indigenous peoples in any of IFAD’s developing Member States.
Mail, e-mail or fax applications to IFAD. The closing date for applications is 20 April 2007. IFAD will not accept applications after that date.
Go the IFAD website for more information and details.
Indigenous Women at the Commission on the Status of Women
March 7, 2007
A special event, entitled "The Secretary General's Report on Violence Against Women: How can it be used to promote change?" will take place from 1:15-2:45 on Wednesday 7 March in Conference Room 2 at UNHQ.
A special event, entitled "The Secretary General's Report on Violence Against Women: How can it be used to promote change?" will take place from 1:15-2:45 on Wednesday 7 March in Conference Room 2 at UNHQ.
The panel will provide the opportunity to learn more about the Secretary-General’s study on all forms of violence against women, how it can be used to respond to international, national and local demands and to promote approaches by which States should address the issue of violence against women. For example, the International Indigenous Women's Forum (FIMI) developed a companion report to the Secretary General’s study, exploring the many manifestations of violence against Indigenous women and providing important strategies to address it.
Speakers will include:
- Ms. Charlotte Bunch, Founder and Executive Director of the Center for Women's Global Leadership at Rutgers University;
- Ms. Monica Alemán, Coordinator of the International Indigenous Forum on Indigenous Issues; and
- Ms. Everjoice Win, International Head of Women’s Rights with Action-Aid International.
Moderated by: Ms. Elsa Stamatopoulou, Chief, Secretariat of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.
(Spanish translation will be provided)
This event is jointly sponsored by SPFII, the Center for Women’s Global Leadership; MADRE, an International Women’s Human Rights Organization; the International Indigenous Women's Forum (FIMI); and Amnesty International’s Stop Violence Against Women Campaign.
Click here for more information.
Staff vacancy at SPFII
February 26, 2007
There is a staff vacancy at the Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, for a Social Affairs officer at the P-3 level. The deadline for applications is 23 April 2007. Click on the link below to access the UN Jobs website. From there, you need to find navigate to the vacancies page. The post is under the Social Affairs grouping.
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Informal pre-sessional meeting for Sixth Session of Forum
February 23, 2007
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.
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.
During its meeting in Beijing, the Forum will discuss a number of issues in connection to the preparation of its Sixth Session in May in New York. The draft programme includes a briefing on major developments since the Fifth Session, a presentation and discussion of summaries of papers prepared by members for the Sixth Session, and a discussion on the visions for the future of the Forum.
Martínes Cobo Study - Finally Available Online
February 15, 2007
SPFII have begun to scan the Study of the Problem of Discrimination Against Indigenous Populations, submitted by the Special Rapporteur, Mr. José R. Martínez Cobo. The Report, commonly known as the Martinez Cobo Study was published in 1981-1983 and has not been available in electronic form, until now...
SPFII have begun to scan the Study of the Problem of Discrimination Against Indigenous Populations, submitted by the Special Rapporteur, Mr. José R. Martínez Cobo. The Report, commonly known as the Martinez Cobo Study was published in 1981-1983 and has not been available in electronic form, until now...
We at SPFII hope that the whole report will be available online in the coming weeks and months in English, and a bit later in Spanish and French. The Conclusions and Recommendations are already available here.
UNDG Focus on Indigenous Issues
February 14, 2007
In January 2007, the UN Development Group (which brings together all UN system agencies, funds and programmes dealing with development) adopted the revised Guidelines for the UN Common Country Assessment and Development Assistance Framework (known as "CCA/UNDAF Guidelines"). We are pleased that the new Guidelines include 15 references to indigenous peoples.
In January 2007, the UN Development Group (which brings together all UN system agencies, funds and programmes dealing with development) adopted the revised Guidelines for the UN Common Country Assessment and Development Assistance Framework (known as "CCA/UNDAF Guidelines"). We are pleased that the new Guidelines include 15 references to indigenous peoples.
Click here to view the Guidelines.
Nominations received for UNPFII membership 2008-2010
February 8, 2007
The Secretariat for UNPFII has received over 35 nominations from indigenous organizations for UNPFII membership for the period 2008-2010.
The Secretariat for UNPFII has received over 35 nominations from indigenous organizations for UNPFII membership for the period 2008-2010. The deadline for nominations was 1 February 2007.
Click here to read more.
Pre-registration for Sixth Session of UNPFII
January 22, 2007
Pre-registration is now open for participation at the Sixth Session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.
Pre-registration is now open for participation at the Sixth Session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.
For more information, go to the Sixth Session page.
Sixth Session of UNPFII
December 27, 2006
In December, the Economic and Social Council decided that the Sixth Session of the UNPFII will take place from 14 to 25 May 2007 in New York. The draft agenda for the Sixth Session is available in the Report of the fifth session, and is also available here below.
In December, the Economic and Social Council decided that the Sixth Session of the UNPFII will take place from 14 to 25 May 2007 in New York. The draft agenda for the Sixth Session is available in the Report of the fifth session, and is also available here below.
Provisional agenda and documentation for the sixth session of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
1. Election of officers.
2. Adoption of the agenda and organization of work.
3. Special theme: territories, lands and natural resources.
4. Implementation of recommendations on the six mandated areas of the
Permanent Forum and on the Millennium Development Goals:
(a) Economic and social development;
(b) Environment;
(c) Health;
(d) Education;
(e) Culture;
(f) Human rights;
(g) Second International Decade of the World’s Indigenous People.
5. Human rights: dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of
human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people.
6. Half-day discussion on Asia.
7. Half-day discussion on urban indigenous peoples and migration.
8. Ongoing priorities and themes, and follow-up: Data collection and disaggregation (2004).
9. Future work of the Permanent Forum including emerging issues.
10. Draft agenda for the seventh session of the Permanent Forum.
11. Adoption of the report of the Permanent Forum on its sixth session.
Expert Group Meeting on the Convention on Biological Diversity´s international regime on access and benefit-sharing and indigenous peoples´rights 17-19 January, 2007
December 13, 2006
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."
UN Headquarters, New York
17-19 January, 2007
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”.
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
Message from Chairperson of UNPFII on International Human Rights Day
December 11, 2006
Indigenous peoples would have joyfully celebrated the International Human Rights Day this year if the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples was adopted by the General Assembly before the end of 2006. Unfortunately, the decision of the Third Committee of the UN General Assembly on November 28th, 2006, to defer the adoption of the Declaration has weakened the meaning of this day.
Indigenous peoples would have joyfully celebrated the International Human Rights Day this year if the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples was adopted by the General Assembly before the end of 2006. Unfortunately, the decision of the Third Committee of the UN General Assembly on November 28th, 2006, to defer the adoption of the Declaration has weakened the meaning of this day.
At the Fifth Session of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues the shared expectation of indigenous peoples, of the UN system and of the Permanent Forum was for the adoption of the Declaration by the General Assembly, as had also been the call of Heads of State at the World Summit in 2005. The Permanent Forum thus adopted the following recommendation at its session in May 2006:
The Permanent Forum is convinced that a declaration on the rights of
indigenous peoples will be an instrument of great value through which to advance
the rights and aspirations of the world’s indigenous peoples. The Permanent Forum therefore recommends the adoption without amendments of the draft declaration on the rights of indigenous peoples … by the General Assembly during its sixty-first session in 2006. This would represent a major achievement for the Second International Decade of the World’s Indigenous People.
To the credit of the newly established Human Rights Council, it adopted this Declaration in June 29, 2006, at its First Session. All the regional caucuses of indigenous peoples spoke with one voice and echoed the resolution of the Human Rights Council that this be adopted by the General Assembly at its 2006 Fall Session.
Click here to read the full statement.
Indigenous leaders and human rights advocates to speak on the current status on the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
December 11, 2006
Press conference by indigenous leaders and human rights advocates to discuss the United Nations Declaration on the Rights on Indigenous Peoples regarding its significance, status and future.
11:00 a.m., Tuesday, 12 December, 2006
Room S-226, United Nations Headquarters, New York.
Press conference by indigenous leaders and human rights advocates to discuss the United Nations Declaration on the Rights on Indigenous Peoples regarding its significance, status and future.
11:00 a.m., Tuesday, 12 December, 2006
Room S-226, United Nations Headquarters, New York.
Speakers included Mr. Roberto Borrero, Indigenous Peoples' Caucus; Ms. Alison Graham, International Service for Human Rights and Mr. Phil Fontaine, National Chief, Assembly of First Nations. Discussion moderated by Ms. Elsa Stamatopoulou, Chief, Secretariat of United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues/DSPD/DESA.
Sponsored by the Permanent Mission of Mexico to the United Nations and the Secretariat of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.
Click here to view the press conference on webcast
Click here to read the briefing on the press conference
Statement by the UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous People, on the General Assembly's decision not to adopt the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
December 6, 2006
The Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms of Indigenous People, Rodolfo Stavenhagen, is concerned about the recent decision of the General Assembly to adjourn consideration of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
The Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms of Indigenous People, Rodolfo Stavenhagen, is concerned about the recent decision of the General Assembly to adjourn consideration of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. It is disappointing that the General Assembly missed the opportunity to assert its principled support of this important human rights instrument on the occasion of this year's Human Rights Day, and as a major contribution to the world's human rights.
The Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples was adopted by the Human Rights Council, the United Nations' main human rights authority, during its first session in June 2006. The Declaration is the result of many years of discussion and negotiation among the states members of the Human Rights Commission, with the active participation of representatives of the world's indigenous peoples.
It is now incumbent upon the Human Rights Council to reaffirm its commitment in promoting and protecting the dignity, survival and well-being of the millions of indigenous people around the world whose rights have long been ignored and neglected, when not actually breached in practice.
Indigenous people expect the Human Rights Council as well as the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, and other UN agencies, to continue promoting the provisions of the Declaration for the protection of the human rights of their members and communities. Much can be done over the next few years, and in the current restructuring of the Council's mechanisms a space must be found to ensure the continuing participation of indigenous representatives in debates concerning the application of international human rights standards to the particular circumstances of indigenous peoples.
The Special Rapporteur hopes that the General Assembly may reconsider its position and adopt the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples at the earliest possible moment.
Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples - Update
November 22, 2006
The Third Committee (Social, Humanitarian and Cultural) on 28 December 2006 adopted a draft resolution that would see the General Assembly defer consideration and action on the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, with the aim of concluding consideration of the Declaration before the end of its current sixty-first session.
The Third Committee (Social, Humanitarian and Cultural) on 28 December 2006 adopted a draft resolution that would see the General Assembly defer consideration and action on the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, with the aim of concluding consideration of the Declaration before the end of its current sixty-first session.
Under a revised draft resolution, whose main sponsor was Peru, with a number of European and Latin American countries listed as co-sponsors, the full text would have been adopted by the Assembly in relatively short order.
But an initiative led by Namibia, co-sponsored by a number of African countries, resulted in the draft being amended. In its new form, the draft would have the Assembly decide “to defer consideration and action on the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples to allow time for further consultations thereon”. Furthermore, the Assembly would also decide “to conclude consideration of the Declaration before the end of its sixty-first session”.
The amendments were adopted by a vote of 82 in favour to 67 against, with 25 abstentions (annex II). The amended draft was then adopted with a vote of 83 in favour to none against, with 91 abstentions (annex III), with the latter notably including countries that had been co-sponsors of the original motions.
Below are the links to the revised resolution to adopt the Declaration and the amendment.
(A/C.3/61/L.18/Rev1)
(A/C.3/61/l.57/Rev.1)
These document can also be retrieved from the UN's ODS system.
Click here to read the latest UN press releases and look for information on the Third Committee. These press releases have detailed accounts of the deliberations that take place in the Committee meetings.
Expert Group Meeting on Forests
November 16, 2006
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.
A Draft Resolution on the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
November 6, 2006
A Draft Resolution A/C.3/61/L.18, proposing the adoption of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples has been itroduced by Peru and co sponsored by a number of countries.
The following countires are cosponsors of the draft resolution:
Armenia, Bolivia, Congo, Croatia, Cuba, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Denmark, Ecuador, Estonia, Fiji, France, Greece, Guatemala, Haiti, Hungary, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia
Briefing on the Draft Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, Thursday October 26
October 25, 2006
A briefing on the Draft Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which will be held on Thursday, October 26th, at 1:15 pm, in Conference Room 1.
The briefing is being organized jointly by the Permanent Missions of Peru, Spain and Mexico, with the aim of raising awareness about the Declaration recently adopted by the Human Rights Council, as we head towards taking action on it in the General Assembly.
- Ms. Elissavet Stamantopoulou-Robbins, Chief of the Secretariat of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
- Mr. Craig Mokhiber, Officer in Charge of the New York Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
- Ms. Xóchitl Gálvez, Director General of the National Commission for the Development of Indigenous Peoples, Mexico
- Ms. Astrid Helle Ajamay, Minister Counsellor at the Permanent Mission of Norway to the International Organizations based in Geneva
- Mr. Luis Enrique Chávez, Deputy Permanent Representative of Peru to the United Nations and former Chairman-Rapporteur of the Working Group on the elaboration of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
- H.E. Mrs. Silvia Escobar, Ambassador in Special Mission for Issues Related for Human Rights of Spain
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Panel on the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
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Indigenous Issues at the Third Committee of the General Assembly, 16-17 October - Starting at 3PM on 16 Oct.
October 12, 2006
At 3:00 PM on Monday 16 October, the Third Committee of the General Assembly will begin its discussions indigenous issues under agenda item 64. Before beginning its work, the Third Committee will hear opening statements by Mr. José Antonio Ocampo, Under-Secretary General for Economic and Social Affairs and Coordinator of the Second International Decade of the World´s Indigenous People, and by Mr. Rodolfo Stavenhagen, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people. In addition to discussing the themes of the Special Rapporteur and the Second Decade, it is expected that the Third Committee will discuss other indigenous issues of interest to the agenda of the United Nations.
There will also be a press conference at UN Headquarters at 11:00 on Friday 13 October on the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, its history, significance and current status.
At 3:00 PM on Monday 16 October, the Third Committee of the General Assembly will begin its discussions indigenous issues under agenda item 64. Before beginning its work, the Third Committee will hear opening statements by Mr. José Antonio Ocampo, Under-Secretary General for Economic and Social Affairs and Coordinator of the Second International Decade of the World´s Indigenous People, and by Mr. Rodolfo Stavenhagen, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people. In addition to discussing the themes of the Special Rapporteur and the Second Decade, it is expected that the Third Committee will discuss other indigenous issues of interest to the agenda of the United Nations.
There will also be a press conference at UN Headquarters at 11:00 on Friday 13 October on the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, its history, significance and current status.
Speakers will include H.E. Mr. Enrique Berruga, Permanent Representative of Mexico to the UN; Mr. Craig Mokhiber, Deputy Director, New York, Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and Ms. Tonya Gonnella Frichner Esq., President, American Indian Law Alliance, moderated by Ms. Elsa Stamatopoulou, Chief, Secretariat of United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues/DSPD/DESA.
The Press conference is available on the UN Webcast.
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