Statement of the
Acting United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights
On the occasion of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous People

9 August 2003

I extend greetings to indigenous peoples throughout the world on the occasion of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous People celebrated each year on 9 August.

This occasion provides an opportunity for all of us to contribute to an activity which draws attention to the extraordinary cultural diversity represented by the world’s indigenous communities. By doing so, we take steps to address and rectify some of the injustices that have affected them and ensure that they are able to fully participate in all aspects of economic, social and cultural life.

The United Nations has pledged to complete the drafting of a Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples that will be proclaimed by the General Assembly.

This most important international commitment requires the goodwill of states and indigenous peoples in a spirit of partnership and cooperation to join forces in this worthy enterprise.

My appeal this year to all those involved is to help honour this pledge and work towards the completion of this declaration before the end of the International Decade of the World’s Indigenous People in December 2004.

Thank you.

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