BACKGROUND: The United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) is a high- level advisory body to the Economic and Social Council. The Forum was established on 28 July 2000 with the mandate to address indigenous issues related to economic and social development, culture, the environment, education, health and human rights. The Permanent Forum:
- provides expert advice and recommendations on indigenous issues to the Council, as well as to programmes, funds and agencies of the United Nations, through ECOSOC
- raises awareness and promotes the integration and coordination of activities related to indigenous issues within the UN system
- prepares and disseminates information on indigenous issues The Permanent Forum holds annual two-week sessions.