United Nations Advocates for Clear Distinction for 'Indigenous Peoples' in Treaty Language

Photo: UN

The United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues and the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples have jointly issued a statement addressing the use of terminology when referring to "local communities" in conjunction with "Indigenous Peoples." The statement asserts that in various conventions and processes, the term "Indigenous Peoples" is frequently combined with vague terms like "local communities," which can dilute the distinct rights and unique situation of Indigenous Peoples.

“Therefore, we, the UN mechanisms of Indigenous Peoples, urge all UN entities in their methods of work to refrain from conflating, associating, combining, or equating Indigenous Peoples with non-indigenous entities, such as minorities, vulnerable groups, or “local communities.”

Additionally, they are calling upon UN Member State parties to environmental, biodiversity, and climate treaties to discontinue the use of "local communities" in tandem with "Indigenous Peoples," advocating instead for the exclusive recognition of "Indigenous Peoples."

For more information, visit the website of the UN.