International Day of World's Indigenous Peoples | Division for Inclusive Social Development (DISD)

9 August 2015 marked the annual celebration of the International Day of World's Indigenous Peoples. This day presented opportunities to the international community to commit to do more to improve the health and well-being of indigenous peoples, who face a wide range of challenges from inadequate sanitation and housing to high rates of diabetes, drug and alcohol abuse. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon stated that these challenges to the health of indigenous peoples are "eminently preventable."

The UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples gives indigenous peoples the rights to health practices and access to all social and health services. These services will allow them to enjoy the highest standards of mental and physical health.

The Secretary General ended the discussion on the International Day stating "on this International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, I call on the international community to ensure that they are not left behind. To create a better, more equitable future, let us commit to do more to improve the health and well-being of indigenous peoples."

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