The United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues was formed on July 28, 2000, comprising sixteen members—eight nominated by national governments and eight nominated by Indigenous Peoples’ organizations—that meet in yearly sessions dedicated to a specific issue. As one of three UN bodies specifically addressing Indigenous Peoples’ issues, UNPFII focuses on addressing Indigenous issues related to economic and social development, culture, environment, education, health, and human rights. By providing expert recommendations concerning Indigenous issues to the UN, raising awareness of and discussing Indigenous issues, and promoting the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), UNPFII advances the rights and representation of Indigenous Peoples at local, regional, and global levels.
This committee is specifically designed for intermediate and experienced delegates. Position papers, although strongly recommended, are not required. However, delegates who wish to be considered for an award must submit their position papers by January 21, 2025, at 23:59 PST. More information about position papers can be found in the Position Paper Guide.
Topic A: Indigenous Language Preservation (Click to show summary)
Every two weeks, one of the world’s diverse and unique Indigenous languages dies. With only about six thousand languages remaining, the world is at risk of losing these distinct aspects of humanity’s linguistic heritage. The importance of these languages is undoubtedly relevant to Indigenous peoples, for whom these languages represent integral tenets of their identity, culture, and history. Historically, colonial governments have suppressed Indigenous languages in an attempt to assimilate native populations; reversing these past deeds, ultimately, is essential to promoting intergenerational transmission of these languages and combatting the long-lasting impacts of colonialism that have infringed upon the fundamental freedoms of Indigenous peoples for centuries.
Topic B: Impacts of Climate Change on Indigenous Communities (Click to show summary)
Indigenous communities have, for millennia, lived with the doctrine of protecting the land on which they live. Colonizers, after seizing Indigenous land, pillaged their territory and resources in the name of industrial advancement. The exploitation and sequestration of Indigenous land, which allowed colonizers to construct large-scale mining, logging, oil, and gas operations, has left Indigenous people particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and global warming. While, in recent years, reconciliatory measures taken by governments have re-established varying degrees of self-governance, Indigenous livelihood practices, including hunting, fishing, and gathering of resources, are posed to be easily affected by rising global temperatures. Delegates in this committee will have the opportunity to discuss policy to eradicate the years of devastation to Indigenous land with the progression of the imperial project, finding ways to mitigate the disproportionate impacts of climate change.
Amy Shumka | Director
Amy is a Grade 12 student at Little Flower Academy and is honoured to serve as the Director of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues at VMUN 2025. Ever since timidly raising her placard at her first conference two years ago, Amy fell in love with the fast-paced and enthralling experience of giving speeches, forming blocs, and writing resolutions. Through Model UN, Amy has not only developed an interest in international relations, but also made countless invaluable memories and friendships. Whether as a delegate or a staff member, Amy hopes to foster interesting, passionate, and most of all, enjoyable debate. Outside of the committee room, Amy can be found playing soccer, discovering new music, or playing rhythm games. Amy looks forward to meeting everyone at VMUN 2025 and hearing delegates’ exciting debate and resolutions!
Lucas Der | Chair
As a Grade 12 student at Stratford Hall in Vancouver, Lucas is excited to serve as a Chair of UNPFII at VMUN 2025. Ever since joining MUN, his interest in it has only grew. During these years in MUN, Lucas has made countless memories like causing nuclear explosions in Poland (maybe accidentally…), sending journalists as suicide bombers into France, and forming many friendships along the way! Outside of MUN, Lucas can be found walking his dog, failing at math and physics, or sending his friends Instagram reels which none of them think are funny. Lucas can’t wait to meet the delegates, and hopes that the weekend is full of meaningful debate!
Jojo Yang | Assistant Director
A Grade 11 student at Crofton House School, Jojo is delighted to serve as the Assistant Director of United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues at VMUN 2025. When just beginning her MUN journey, her first-ever delegation speeches consisted solely of trembling fingers, stumbling, and slightly intimidating stares from the whole committee. However, this seemingly terrifying experience evolved into serious speeches with creative hooks, successful assassination directives during the morning crisis, and the chanting of her country’s anthem loud and proud. Jojo cherishes the intense yet lighthearted memories created in MUN. Outside of the conference halls, Jojo can be found at various Vancouver beaches with her camera, staying in her music room with countless instruments for company, and in her art studio, attempting to finish her watercolour project that has gone on for months. Jojo is looking forward to another exciting weekend!
You can contact the Director at unpfii@vmun.com. Any questions regarding the committee or its debate procedures will be answered by email. Position papers must also be submitted to this address.