Implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples would both bring historical justice to that too-often ignored segment of humanity and develop stronger democratic, multicultural societies, the Special Rapporteur on indigenous issues told the Third Committee (Social, Humanitarian and Cultural) of the UN General Assembly. See Press Release and Report.
"I am impressed by the several initiatives by the Government of the Russian Federation and regional governments to address the concerns of the country’s small-numbered indigenous peoples," stated James Anaya, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people, as he concluded his visit to Russia. "Significant… Read More »
Following an visit to Peru to examine the events of Bagua, Peru in June 2009, Special Rapporteur James Anaya issued a report with several recommendations to clarify the facts surrounding the events and to address the underlying problems related to shortcoming in the protections for the rights of indigenous peoples. See Press Release issued at… Read More »
A report by Special Rapporteur James Anaya done after an on site visit to Panama finds significant flaws in the government’s authorization for the dam and the ongoing construction project. He calls for a new process of dialogue with the affected communities to obtain their agreement on the terms of the project and for measures… Read More »
Special Rapporteur James Anaya attended the title-granting ceremony in Awas Tingni. Read his commentary on the event.
After his visit to the country, Special Rapporteur James Anaya noted that Nepal’s government has achieved some positive developments in improving the human rights of Nepal’s indigenous peoples, but that a number of concerns related to a history of discrimination against the Adivasi Janajati remain. See Press Release issued at the conclusion of the visit… Read More »
"Despite advances, exercise of the right to self-determination for indigenous peoples – that is, real control of their own lives and lands – is still a major challenge for Brazil." This was the main observation of the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people, S. James… Read More »