Consultation for U.S. Government Review of Position on U.N. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

On April 20, 2010, United States Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Susan E. Rice announced at the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues that the United States has decided to review the U.S. position on the U.N. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

The Administration recognizes that, for many around the world, this declaration provides a framework for addressing indigenous issues. During President Obama's first year in office, tribal leaders and interested non-governmental organizations (NGOs) encouraged the United States to reexamine its position on the Declaration - an important recommendation that directly complements our commitment to work together with the international community on the many challenges that indigenous peoples face.

The U.S. Government's formal review of the UN Declaration has begun. As part of this process, the U.S. Department of State, together with other federal agencies, will be hosting consultations with federally-recognized tribes and dialogues with interested NGOs and other stakeholders. For more information, please visit the State Department's website located at http://www.state.gov/s/tribalconsultation/declaration.