Statement by USAID Acting Administrator Barsa: USAID launches its First Policy on Promoting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

PRO-IP recognizes the value of Indigenous Peoples' own decision-making processes, expertise as environmental and cultural stewards, and aspirations as rightful leaders for their development priorities. Further, it recognizes that they should be critical partners with USAID in the conservation of cultural and natural resources. PRO-IP builds on USAID's experience in supporting Indigenous Peoples' rights, consistent with our strategic approach to empower individuals and communities through helping governments, civil society including faith-based organizations, and the private sector on the Journey to Self-Reliance.

USAID is also pleased to announce the creation of the first global public-private partnership for Indigenous Peoples. Under USAID's Global Development Alliance (GDA), the Indigenous Peoples Alliance for Rights and Development Program will provide technical support to our Missions globally to implement PRO-IP effectively.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).