Taíno Delegates engage the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues

Taíno delegates at the 2026 UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues. From left to right, Ana-Maria Colberg, UCTP; Nitaino Taí Pellicier, UCTP; Soraya Franco, CARIBWAK; and Kasike R. Múkaro Agueibaná Borrero, UCTP.

The 25th Session of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) opened in New York (April 20–May 1, 2026), focusing on Indigenous health, territorial rights, and climate change, with Indigenous leaders highlighting that environmental degradation and violence are driving severe health inequities. Key themes being addressed by the Forum include Health and Environment, Conflict and Protection, as well as Reproductive Justice, among others. Among the delegates attending the Forum are Indigenous Taíno Peoples from Borikén (Puerto Rico) and Kiskeia (Dominican Republic). The Taíno delegates intend to raise the visibility of various issues ranging from environmental violence to Indigenous Peoples in colonial situations. "The Confederation has continuously engaged the Forum from its first session to highlight the unique situations of Taíno Peoples across the islands and the Diaspora. Our representatives are well-prepared to present interventions to the plenary and we are co-sponsoring at least two side events during the session" stated Kasike R. Múkaro Agueibaná Borrero, President of the United Confederation of Taíno People. The UNPFII is a high-level advisory body to the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), established in 2000 to focus on Indigenous issues regarding economic/social development, culture, environment, education, health, and human rights. It serves as the central UN coordinating body for the concerns of over 476 million Indigenous Peoples globally. UCTPTAINONEWS 04/24/2026