U.S. Department of State announces platform for public input during review of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

During the Ninth Session of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, the United States announced that they would be reviewing their position on the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). The UNDRIP was adopted by the General Assembly in September 2007. While 144 Member States voted in favor of adopting the historic UNDRIP, the United States was one of 4 Member States who voted against the adoption, alongside Canada, New Zealand and Australia. There were 11 Member States who abstained. Of the 4 countries who voted against the UNDRIP, Canada has declared its reconsideration, while Australia and New Zealand have actually reversed their decision.

Together with other Federal Agencies, the U.S. Department of State will be hosting consultations with federally-recognized tribes and dialogues with NGO’s and other stakeholders. The consultations schedule will be posted on the website located at www.state.gov/tribalconsultation/declaration. Tribal leaders, NGO’s and others are encouraged to contribute to the review via email (declaration@state.gov) or via mail to the Department of State: S/SR Global Intergovernmental Affairs, U.S. Department of State, 2201 C Street N.W., Suite 1317, Washington, D.C. 20520. Written comments are requested by July 15, 2010 so that they can be given adequate consideration as part of the review.