Backgrounder: Minister Anand announces funding to promote Indigenous voices on the world stage

The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced that Global Affairs Canada will provide $3 million to the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights for the following project.

Project: Indigenous Fellowship Program and UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples

Funding amount: $3 million

This project supports Indigenous representatives in strengthening their advocacy skills and participation in international decision-making processes. Through the Indigenous Fellowship Program and the UN Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous leaders will receive training, mentorship and financial support to engage effectively with UN human rights mechanisms.

The project includes participation from 90 Indigenous representatives, including women, persons with disabilities and 2SLGBTIQ+ individuals, and will enhance their advocacy and leadership skills through training and leadership development. Additionally, at least 160 Indigenous representatives will participate in UN forums, including the UN Human Rights Council and the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues. An Indigenous alumni network will be established to share knowledge and experiences globally and a digital platform will be created to support training, engagement and long-term advocacy efforts.