The basis for UN Country Teams’ support to Member States on indigenous issues is the , which establishes a universal framework of minimum standards for the survival, dignity, well-being and rights of the world’s indigenous peoples. To support the implementation of the Declaration, the UN Development Group in 2008 adopted to assist the UN system to mainstream indigenous peoples鈥� issues into the operational activities and programmes at the country level. In addition to the Declaration, the on Indigenous and Tribal Peoples and the provide further guidance.
Why focus on indigenous peoples?
All over the world, indigenous peoples face exclusion, discrimination and multiple challenges in terms of threats to their cultures, languages and identity. Indigenous peoples should therefore be part of the United Nations鈥� core work.
Recognition of indigenous peoples
The recognition of indigenous peoples varies from country to country, and region to region. There are some governments who do not recognize the existence of indigenous peoples. However, a comprehensive international framework is in place, providing for the recognition of indigenous peoples鈥� rights. This includes:
- The ,
- The ,
- The , and
- The Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.
Global framework for leaving no one behind
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide an improved framework to work on indigenous peoples鈥� issues compared to the Millennium Development Goals, where indigenous peoples were almost invisible. The 2030 Agenda also reflects a strong commitment by world leaders to confront inequality, marginalization and to leave no one behind. The United Nations has an important role to play in making this a reality for indigenous peoples. and
To learn more about indigenous peoples and the 2030 Agenda, click here.
System-wide action plan
听In regards to indigenous peoples鈥� issues, a system-wide action plan has been developed with the specific objective of enhancing coherence and coordination within the UN system. 鈥淲hat I am really asking you, is that we should break the normal attitude of working in silos and avoid duplications鈥� You must think as one, act as one and deliver as one. This is the best way to fully utilise our limited resources,鈥� said the Secretary-General, also encouraging the World Bank and IMF to be part of that process together with UN Country Teams. .
Tools听for UN Country Teams
