United Nations adopts Declaration on Rights of Indigenous Peoples

– This is a historic day for the Sami population and other indigenous peoples across the world, says the Minister of Labour and Social Inclusion, Mr. Bjarne Håkon Hanssen.

Indigenous peoples have participated in the making of the Declaration.

– Today, The General Assembly adopted the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. The Declaration is not a legally binding document, but it will be important in the ongoing work of deciding the rights of indigenous peoples. The declaration will probably be particularly important to poor indigenous peoples of the South, who are among the most marginalized groups in society, says the Minister. 

The Declaration includes provisions about fundamental needs, such as food, health and education, in addition to provisions regarding the uses of traditional resources and land areas.

– The Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples is in line with the Norwegian Government’s politics towards the Sami population, says the Minister.

UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues