International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is held annually on 9 August since 1994. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted this Day to honor Indigenous Peoples, recognize their knowledge systems, and promote their rights. 

This year’s theme, “Indigenous Peoples and AI: Defending Rights, Shaping Futures,” highlights the opportunities and challenges that artificial intelligence presents for Indigenous communities in helping preserve endangered languages, mapping ancestral lands, and amplifying Indigenous knowledge in the fight against climate change. Yet, without the full and meaningful participation of Indigenous Peoples, these technologies risk reinforcing exclusion and violating their rights.

Visit PGA’s resources to learn more about two landmark agreements that elevate the voices and rights of Indigenous Peoples: the Escazú Agreement— ensuring access rights in Latin America and the Caribbean, and protecting all human rights defenders in environmental matters, including Indigenous Peoples; and the High Seas Treaty—recognizing the importance of traditional knowledge from Indigenous communities in protecting marine biodiversity.

1. Factsheet for Parliamentarians: United Nations High Seas Treaty, a Historic Agreement to Protect the Ocean
2. Toolkit for Parliamentarians: the Escazu Agreement, Promoting Human Rights in Environmental Matters