Selected international organisations which represent indigenous peoples

United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII)

This UN organisation was established in April 2000 during the International Decade of the World’s Indigenous Peoples. The UNPFII is an advisory body to the Economic and Social Council with a mandate to discuss indigenous issues related to economic and social development, culture, the environment, education, health and human rights.

Survival International

A worldwide organisation supporting tribal peoples. It stands for their right to decide their own future and helps them protect their lives, lands and human rights.

Cultural Survival

A US-based NGO which is dedicated to defending the human rights of indigenous peoples. Cultural Survival helps indigenous groups to acquire the knowledge, advocacy tools, and strategic partnerships necessary to protect their rights

Indian Council of South America (CISA)

An NGO that works in consultation with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, to promote respect for the right to life, justice, development, peace, and autonomy of indigenous peoples.

International Alliance of Indigenous and Tribal Peoples of the Tropical Forests (IAITPTF)

A worldwide network of organisations which represent indigenous and tribal peoples living in tropical forest regions like Central America. The Alliance fights for the rights of indigenous and tribal peoples.

International Indian Treaty Council (IITC)

An organisation of indigenous peoples from North, Central, South America and the Pacific working for the sovereignty and self-determination of indigenous peoples and the recognition and protection of indigenous rights, traditional cultures and sacred lands.

International Work Group for Indigenous Affairs (IWGIA)

IWGIA supports indigenous peoples’ struggle for human rights, self-determination, right to territory, control of land and resources, cultural integrity, and the right to development. In Central America, they work in Guatemala and Panama.

United World of Indigenous Peoples (UWIP)

A Czech organisation that disseminates information about the contemporary situations of indigenous peoples around the world. This organisation supports the advancement and protection of indigenous rights.