The UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues

The UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues 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 Permanent Forum has a mandate to:

• provide expert advice and recommendations on indigenous issues to the Council, as well as to programmes, funds and agencies of the United Nations, through the Council
• raise awareness and promote the integration and coordination of activities related to indigenous issues within the UN system
• prepare and disseminate information on indigenous issues

The Permanent Forum holds two-week sessions once a year, usually in May. The first meeting of the Permanent Forum was held in New York in May 2002. The Permanent Forum sessions are open to delegates from indigenous organizations and NGOs working on indigenous issues.