Indigenous Peoples and the UN

ìThe human family is a tapestry of enormous beauty and diversity.† The indigenous peoples of the world are a rich and integral part of that tapestry.† They have much to be proud of and much to teach the other members of the human family.† The protection and promotion of their rights and cultures is of fundamental importance to all States and all peoples.î
Kofi Annan, Secretary-General, United Nations

It is estimated that there are at least 5,000 indigenous groups composed of 370 million people living in more than 70 countries on five continents. Their way of life, livelihood, religion and culture are inextricably intertwined with and dependent on the traditional environment in which they live. Indigenous peoples are the descendants - according to one definition - of those who inhabited a country or a geographical region at the time when people of different
cultures or ethnic origins arrived.

Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues

Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues ≠ this is an advisory body to the Economic and Social Council, with a mandate to discuss indigenous issues related to economic and social development, culture, the environment, education, health and human rights. †

The theme this year will be ìLand, Territories, and Resourcesî,
and will be held May 14-25 at UN Headquarters. Website at:

www.un.org/esa/socdev/unpfii

Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

Climate Change Panel

United Nations Guide for Indigenous Peoples

International Expert Group Meeting on the Convention on Biological Diversityís
international regime on access and benefit-sharing and
indigenous peoplesí human rights (organized by the secretariat of
the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues,
Division for Social Policy and Development, Department of
Economic and Social Affairs).† Wednesday, January 17 to Friday, January 19, 2007.