Call to turn indigenous rights to reality
”This forum can play a dynamic role in…helping indigenous peoples around the world achieve the self-determination they deserve. Your success can build momentum towards the World Conference on Indigenous Peoples planned for 2014,” said Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon at the opening of the 10th Session of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues on 16 May.
Under-Secretary-General of DESA Sha Zukang also spoke in his capacity as the Secretary-General of Rio+20, highlighting the important role indigenous peoples play when it comes to sustainable development: “Rio+20 is a tremendous opportunity for indigenous peoples to share their wisdom with all of us. Indigenous peoples have a unique understanding of Mother Earth as a living entity, where all beings are interconnected and interdependent.”
The 10th Session was led by newly elected Chair Ms. Mirna Cunningham and continued until 27 May.
Video from opening of session:
http://www.unmultimedia.org/tv/webcast/2011/05/10th-session-of-un-permanent-forum-on-indigenous-issues-opening-original-language.html
Global UN forum marks decade-long effort to promote rights of indigenous peoples:
http://www.unmultimedia.org/tv/webcast/2011/05/global-un-forum-marks-decade-long-effort-to-promote-rights-of-indigenous-people.html
For more information:
http://www.un.org/esa/socdev/unpfii/en/session_tenth.html
http://www.un.org/en/development/desa/newsletter/2011/june/feature.shtml#fea3
