From the beginning, UNEP has recognized indigenous peoples as natural allies. Most indigenous cultures are based on the profound respect of nature and premised on the practice of sustainability. Since its preparatory meeting and its establishment, the Forum has been an opportunity for UNEP RONA to promote the environmental dimension related to indigenous issues and to highlight the environmental challenges and risks affecting indigenous peoples, as well as their unique potential contribution in providing needed solutions to environmental sustainability. UNEP perceived the Forum as a meaningful contribution to the cause of indigenous peoples as it enabled them to identify for themselves critical issues, and evaluate these on the basis of best available information. From UNEP’s perspective, the Forum is a major step forward in responding concretely to the call of Chapter 26 of Agenda 21, and thus giving impetus to issues in a more effective and committed manner. Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues web site

Sessions

Second Session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
UNHQ, New York 12-23 May 2003
Statement by Laetitia Zobel. UNEP

First Session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
UNHQ, New York 13-24 May 2002
Statement by UNEP New York Office

Commemoration of the 2001 International Day Of the World’s Indigenous People
UNHQ, New York, 9-10 August 2001
Statement by Mr. Pierre Quiblier Liaison Officer
UNEP New York Office