The 25th session of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, 20 April - 1 May 2026, New York

In his speech at the opening session the Secretary-General acknowledged Indigenous Peoples as “bearers of cultures, knowledge, and ways of life that have sustained humanity for thousands of years.” 

Stressing that their participation in global decision-making has never been more critical, he outlined four priorities for action, with the first urging Member States to honour their commitments under the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.  

Meanwhile, the UN system and Member States must ensure the full, meaningful, and direct participation of Indigenous Peoples at all levels, supported by adequate and sustained financing.   

He called for societies everywhere to take immediate and concrete steps to protect Indigenous Peoples, their leaders, and human rights defenders – and to address the violence and risks they face.  

The final area for action is to ensure that Indigenous women and girls can participate meaningfully in decisions that affect their lives, as “their knowledge, leadership, and perspectives must shape the way forward.”