OHCHR - United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights

Published purpose

This project supports Indigenous representatives in strengthening their advocacy skills and participation in international decision-making processes. Through Canada’s contributions to the Indigenous Fellowship Program (IFP) and the UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples (UNVFIP), Indigenous leaders receive training, mentorship, and financial support to engage effectively with UN human rights mechanisms. Project activities include: (1) training to improve indigenous participants’ leadership and advocacy skills; (2) supporting their participation in key UN forums; (3) establishing peer support networks; and (4) developing an online resource hub to facilitate access to advocacy tools. By promoting Indigenous voices in international decision-making, the project strengthens the ability of indigenous representatives to advocate for their rights and those of their communities, hold states accountable, and influence policies that impact Indigenous communities worldwide.