2025 New York UN Practicum
United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
“Implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples within United Nations Member States and the United Nations system, including identifying good practices and addressing challenges”
April 26 – May 3, 2025
Students had a transformative experience at the 2025 United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues in New York, where they engaged with Permanent Representatives from Pacific Island nations and the Philippines. They gained valuable insights into international diplomacy and global advocacy through in-depth discussions on policy priorities such as climate change, sustainable development, and indigenous rights.
Participants
Addison Arlint
Ashton Finau
John Andrew Quizana
Maanaia Spooner
Qudaela Taleni
Rosalind Malolo
Selina Walter
Timoci Kean
Vilai Ilolahia
Student Highlights
“It was such an eye-opening experience as we visited the different Permanent Missions, including Samoa, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, New Zealand, Palau, and the Philippines. These missions share the same priorities, especially regarding climate change, the ocean, and sustainable development. Initiatives were also highlighted on how to combat climate change issues, the impact of nuclear testing, the effects of deep-sea mining, and how to effectively use the ocean to harness energy.
Another key highlight for me was the opportunity to witness the Indigenous Forum and observe how each country or indigenous group strives to address the needs of their indigenous peoples-while not always agreeing on the implementation process as their needs and issues vary. It was also awesome to visit the General Assembly and Security Council rooms and learn how the Conference process works.”
- Qudaela Taleni
"I loved being able to not only visit with the permanent missions for the Pacific but also the opportunity to network with some of the native lead NGOs at the conference. I have a soft spot in my heart for the Pacific, especially studying here at BYUH, but being able to connect with my culture was such a special experience. I was actually able to meet someone from back home who knew my family! She gave a statement in one of the sessions and inspired what I am writing my research paper on this semester. It was such a perfect balance of exposure to the Pacific leaders and their priorities, and the networking opportunity with native-led NGOs.
Another highlight for me was feeling the passion of nearly every person there. These indigenous peoples had traveled far and put in a lot of work and research to stand before the world’s largest organization and defend what they love. It was inspiring to see people of all ages from all over the world make a difference. I was especially intrigued by the NGOs and found a new spark of interest. This field study opened my mind to new opportunities."
- Addison Arlint
This immersive trip empowered students to build global networks, deepen their understanding of international affairs, and become advocates for indigenous and environmental issues on the world stage.
