On Wednesday 26 March, the Human Rights Council adopted, during its 7th session, and without a vote, the list of candidates for special procedures mandate holders proposed by the President of the Council. The list includes the name of the new Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people, Professor S. James Anaya.

Professor  Anaya has been recognized as one of the world's leading human rights advocates and legal scholars for many years. His advocacy and legal work on behalf of indigenous communities has garnered worldwide attention. Anaya has an extensive list of publications, many of which are considered the seminal writings in the field.

As United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms of Indigenous Peoples, James Anaya will investigate human rights violations against indigenous people and provide recommendations to the U.N. Human Rights Council and governments around the world to improve their situations.

Anaya, is the second person to be named to the position since it was created in 2001. The current mandate-holder, Prof. Rodolfo Stavenhagen, will continue holding the mandate until Prof. Anaya appointment becomes effective on May 1.

IWGIA is convinced that James Anaya will make full use of his expertise and experience in his new and important position, and we look forward to collaborating with Mr Anaya in the future.