04/28/2026
From 20 April to 1 May, the 25th session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII) is taking place at UN Headquarters in New York.
The Salvation Army is represented by the Directors of the International Social Justice Commission, Lt-Colonels Ian and Liz Gainsford, alongside Major Victoria Edmonds, Senior United Nations Representative, reflecting a continued commitment to advocating for the rights, dignity and wellbeing of Indigenous Peoples.
The Commission also welcomed Captain Faye Molen (New Zealand) and Major Stuart Glover (Australia) at the opening of the session, strengthening indigenous representation from the Pacific in these important global conversations.
This year’s Forum underscores the urgent need to address the inequalities faced by Indigenous communities, particularly in access to healthcare, including in contexts of conflict. During the opening ceremony, António Guterres, UN Secretary, highlighted the vital role of Indigenous Peoples in safeguarding our planet, describing them as ‘guardians of nature, a living library of biodiversity conservation and champions of climate action.’
The Salvation Army remains steadfast in standing alongside Indigenous Peoples worldwide, advocating for justice, health equity and the protection of rights rooted in culture, land and community.