• One of three UN bodies mandated to deal specifically with indigenous peoples’ issues.
• Others are-

1. Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and
2. Special Rapporteur Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

• 16 independent experts serving three-year terms, with eight nominated by member governments and eight directly nominated by indigenous organizations
• Countries: Finland, Nepal, Chad, Australia, Colombia, Bolivia, United States, Russia, China, Ecuador, Burundi, Denmark, Mexico, Namibia, Estonia, and one additional rotating seat

• Provide expert advice and recommendations on indigenous issues to the Council, UN programs, funds, and agencies through ECOSOC.
• Raise awareness and promote integration of indigenous issues within the UN system.
• Prepare and disseminate information on indigenous issues.

• Established by General Assembly in 2002.
• Based in New York within Division for Inclusive Social Development (DISD) of UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA)

PYQ:

[UPSC CSE 2009] With reference to the United Nations, consider the following statements:

1. The Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of UN consists of 24 member States.
2. It is elected by a 2/3rd majority of the General Assembly for a 3-year term.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2