GENEVA (1 March 2024) – The UN Special Rapporteur on the rights of Indigenous Peoples, José Francisco Calí Tzay, will conduct an official visit to Colombia from 5 to 15 March 2024, at the invitation of the Government.
During his visit, Calí Tzay will pay particular attention to the situation of the territorial rights of Indigenous Peoples, the rights of indigenous women and children, as well as the right to participate in public affairs and to be free from reprisals for defending and promoting human rights.
The Special Rapporteur will also analyse the situation of the consultation processes for obtaining free, prior and informed consent from Indigenous Peoples, as well as the progress in the implementation of the peace agreements and the impact of megaprojects, protected areas and green financing on the rights of Indigenous Peoples.
The expert will meet with State authorities, indigenous and civil society organisations in Bogotá. He will travel to several departments of the country, including indigenous territories, to gather first-hand information from authorities, leaders and other Indigenous Peoples.
Calí Tzay will hold a press conference on 15 March 2024 at the headquarters of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights in Colombia, Calle 113 #7ª-45 Torre B, at 11 am. Access will be strictly limited to journalists.
The Special Rapporteur will present his report to the Human Rights Council in September 2024.