Upon conclusion of his visit to the Republic of Congo, the Special Rapporteur commended the Government for the significant steps it is taking to recognize and protect the rights of marginalized indigenous peoples of the country. Significant challenges remain, however to advance and implement these initiatives so that they can result in real improvement in the conditions of these peoples. During his 11 day visit to the Congo, the Special Rapporteur visited a number of indigenous communities in the departments of Likouala and Lekoumou, and met with many government officials, United Nations agencies, and civil society organizations in Brazzaville. See the full press statement here [English and French].