UN Forum highlights healthcare for Indigenous Peoples

The UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues opened in New York to focus on Indigenous Peoples' access to healthcare, including during conflict, and Aluki Kotierk was re-elected chair.

Delegates gathered at United Nations Headquarters in New York as the 25th session of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues opened with a focus on Indigenous Peoples' access to healthcare, including during conflict. The forum has placed Indigenous concerns at the centre of international debate for 25 years. UN Secretary-General António Guterres and General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock addressed the opening session and outlined priorities for action. Aluki Kotierk of Canada was re-elected chair by acclamation. Key points: - The session's theme is ensuring Indigenous Peoples' access to healthcare, including in situations of conflict. - More than 1,000 participants were expected to attend the 25th UNPFII session. - Aluki Kotierk, an Inuit leader from Canada, was re-elected chair of the forum by acclamation. - Speakers reported that Indigenous Peoples make up about six percent of the global population but account for nearly 19 percent of those living in extreme poverty, and they face shorter life expectancy and higher rates of chronic illness and suicide. - Degradation of lands and waters, including mercury contamination and climate change impacts, was reported as contributing to poor health outcomes for Indigenous communities. Summary: The forum linked Indigenous rights, lands, languages and ecosystems to health outcomes and discussed the need for holistic, decolonized approaches to health that reflect Indigenous perspectives. Speakers outlined priorities such as honouring commitments under the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, ensuring meaningful participation and providing sustained financing, and addressing risks faced by Indigenous leaders and rights defenders. The session runs through 20 April and will address a range of issues related to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.