The FAO Fisheries Department and the FAO Indigenous Peoples' Unit organised a side event at the 20th Session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII), which took place on 22nd April. Ms. Anne Nuorgam, Chair of the UNPFII and from the Sámi people, graciously opened the event sharing her personal experiences of belonging to a fishing community in northern Finland. This was followed by an overview of the work done by the FAO Fisheries Division and Indigenous Peoples' Unit respectively. The panel discussion saw five Indigenous experts sharing their knowledge and giving their insights on the importance of inland fisheries within indigenous peoples’ food systems and their territorial management practices. Mr. Manuel Barange, Executive Director of the FAO Fisheries Division closed the event.

The speakers represented the Indigenous Peoples of the Sámi (Norway, Finland, Sweden, Russia), Inuit (Canada/Alaska), Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians (Michigan/USA), Karen (Myanmar/Thailand) and Tikuna, Cocama, Yagua (Amazon).