UN General Assembly adopts resolution on “Rights of indigenous peoples”

On 16 December 2020, the UN General Assembly adopted without a vote the resolution on “Rights of indigenous peoples” (document A/75/475).

Among other issues, the resolution includes:

  • The Assembly decided to convene a high‑level event in 2022 for the launch of the International Decade of Indigenous Languages and further, requested the President of the General Assembly President to support initiatives relevant to the successful celebration of the International Decade, within existing resources;
  • Called upon Member States to ensure the protection for Indigenous Peoples affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and prevent all forms of discrimination, especially in the context of timely, universal, inclusive, equitable and non-discriminatory access to safe, quality, effective and affordable health care and services;
  • Decided to continue the consideration of possible further measures necessary to enhance the participation of Indigenous Peoples’ representatives and institutions in relevant United Nations meetings on issues affecting them at the 76th  session, as originally requested in resolution 71/321.

This resolution was approved by the Third Committee (Social, Humanitarian and Cultural) on 19 November 2020.  Bolivia and Ecuador were the co-facilitators for the resolution.

See all General Assembly resolutions on indigenous peoples >>>

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