United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues

May 1, 2023

The United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) is a high-level advisory body established on July 28, 2000, to provide expert advice and recommendations on indigenous issues related to economic and social development, culture, the environment, education, health, and human rights. It serves as a platform for indigenous peoples to voice their concerns and work together towards a better future.

The Mandate of UNPFII

The mandate of the UNPFII is to raise awareness and promote the integration and coordination of activities related to indigenous issues within the UN system. In addition, it readies and distributes data concerning indigenous matters while advocating for and ensuring the complete implementation of the guidelines set out in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The Forum is a unique space where governments, civil society organizations, and indigenous peoples can come together to address issues that affect indigenous peoples worldwide.

22nd Session of the UNPFII

The 22nd session of the UNPFII, which took place from April 17 to 28 this year, centered on the full inclusion of indigenous people in realizing their socio-economic development and the preservation of their culture, languages, and environment. A report on the subjects of “truth, transitional justice, and reconciliation processes” was given during the session. This report highlighted the need to address the historical injustices committed against indigenous peoples and to promote transitional justice and reconciliation processes to ensure that their rights are respected.

Key Topics Covered During the 22^nd Session of the UNPFII

Effects of Colonialism and Apartheid: The colonialism and apartheid resulted in indigenous communities losing their lands and resources. Launching public policies and combating structural discrimination are some of the steps that need to be taken to overcome the historic debt to indigenous peoples.
Protecting Indigenous People’s Traditional Knowledge and Genetic Resources: The legal protection of indigenous peoples’ traditional knowledge, cultural experiences, and genetic resources remains inadequate. This needs to be addressed to safeguard their rights and ensure that their knowledge and resources are not exploited without their consent.
The Green Shift and Indigenous Peoples: The green shift cannot happen by compromising cultures that have kept ecosystems intact. The global community needs to abandon fossil fuels and reduce emissions while transitioning to alternative energy sources without placing the burden of this shift on indigenous peoples.
Indigenous Peoples and Biodiversity: The importance of indigenous peoples’ traditional knowledge and practices is underscored in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework for the Convention on Biological Diversity. This acknowledgment is essential in protecting biodiversity and promoting sustainable development.
Media and Indigenous Peoples’ Rights: Article 16 of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples acknowledges indingeous peoples’ right to establish their media. Media is essential for providing reliable information, raising awareness, and inspiring action to address global challenges. Thus, promoting and safeguarding the media rights of indigenous peoples is crucial for their empowerment and the promotion of their rights.

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