United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues

The United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) is a high-level advisory body to the Economic and Social Council. The Forum was established on July 28, 2000, with the mandate to deal with Indigenous issues related to economic and social development, culture, the environment, education, health, and human rights.  

UNPFII consists of sixteen independent experts; eight nominated by governments and eight nominated by Indigenous peoples’ organizations in their regions. The forum meets annually for two weeks in New York, serving as a platform for Indigenous Peoples to discuss issues affecting their communities. Furthermore, it provides a space for Indigenous Peoples to engage with member states, civil society organizations, and other Indigenous Peoples organizations from around the world to exchange views and best practices on how to promote and protect the rights of Indigenous peoples.   

More specifically the Permanent Forum: 

• Provides expert advise and recommendations on Indigenous issues to the Council, as well as to programmes, funds and agencies of the United Nations (UN); 
• Raises awareness and promotes the integration and coordination of activities related to Indigenous issues within the UN system; 
• Prepares and disseminates information on Indigenous issues;
• Promotes respect for and full application of the provisions of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and follow up the effectiveness of this Declaration. 

The United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues serves as a vital platform for Indigenous Peoples to discuss issues affecting their communities, exchange views and best practices, and engage with member states, civil society organizations, and other Indigenous Peoples organizations worldwide. Through their participation, the Métis Nation has the opportunity to showcase their unique identity, culture, and history while engaging in meaningful discussions and building relationships with other Indigenous Peoples organizations from around the world. The Métis National Council and the Métis Governments' participation in this event is a crucial step towards advancing the rights and interests not only of the Métis Nation but of Indigenous peoples globally. 

Objectives and Priorities: 

1. To share Métis Nation experiences, challenges, and best practices. 
2. To advocate for the inclusion of Indigenous perspectives and experiences in efforts to achieve enhanced participation. 
3. To build relationships with other Indigenous Peoples, Non-Government Organizations, and UN Member States and entities to advance the rights and interests of Indigenous Peoples globally.