September 13, 2007, the UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in an historic vote. The Declaration was adopted by a substantial majority of nation states, with 143 voting in favor, 4 against, and 11 abstaining. The Declaration was forwarded to the General Assembly by the Human Rights Council last year.
Seattle Post-Intelligencer Op-Ed by Robert T. Coulter
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Multilateral development banks (MDBs) and some national development banks play a central role in the approval of large-scale development projects, such as dams and forestry initiatives, which have had devastating effects on indigenous peoples and other local communities. The Center works to ensure that these financial institutions respect the environment and human rights of indigenous peoples in all their development activities.
The UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in an historic vote September 13, 2007. The Declaration was adopted by a substantial majority of nation states, with 143 voting in favor, 4 against, and 11 abstaining.
Center staff have worked with the many indigenous nations, tribes and communities we represent for over 30 years toward the adoption of this historic human rights instrument. Please follow the links below for more information.
Indian and Alaska Native nations and tribes have long used international law, especially human rights law, to challenge the discrimination and injustice that affect them. International human rights offer some real hope for overcoming the severe unfairness of the laws and policies in many countries, including the United States.
