A/HRC/15/36 mentioned some positive developments, such as the recent exchange of experience between indigenous experts, State representatives and United Nations bodies that took place with the support of the Permanent Forum and the ILO. 54. The report on the second seminar on treaties, agreements and other constructive arrangements between States and indigenous peoples (A/HRC/EMRIP/2010/5), and recommendations contained therein was presented by OHCHR and the co-Rapporteurs of the seminar, Wilton Littlechild and Andrea Carmen in light of its relevance for the implementation of article 37 and other pertinent provisions of the Declaration. The seminar took place in the traditional lands of the Maskwacîs Cree peoples in Hobbema, Canada, from 14 to 17 November 2006. 55. In concluding the discussion, Mr. Henriksen reflected on numerous aspects of the debate under agenda item 4. With reference to the final report on the study on treaties, agreements and other constructive arrangements between States and indigenous populations, developed within the framework of the Sub-Commission on Prevention of Discrimination and Protection of Minorities (E/CN.4/Sub.2/1999/20, he expressed disagreement with the views of the former Special Rapporteur of the Sub-Commission who in his final report expressed the view that groups in African and Asian States claiming to be indigenous should be analysed in other United Nations forums than those that are concerned with the problems of indigenous peoples.2 Mr. Henriksen referred to the fact that a number of Asian and African States recognize the existence of indigenous peoples within their territories. He underlined that he was not of the view that every group claiming to be indigenous should be recognized as such, but that every case should be considered on its merits. Mr. Henriksen expressed his agreement with the calls to make the Declaration more accessible to people at the national and local levels, including through translation into national, local and indigenous languages. He also welcomed the fact that the discussion demonstrated that in addition to problems and challenges the Mechanism is in a position to welcome information about positive achievements. 56. Ms. Lasimbang stressed the importance of engaging NHRIs in the implementation of the Declaration and welcomed statements by indigenous peoples that demonstrated positive initiatives to understand the aspirations of indigenous peoples themselves. Such initiatives were critical, not only in bridging the existing gaps but also to show how these rights can be implemented in the context of the Declaration. 57. Ms. Odimba Kombe also made concluding remarks under agenda item 4, highlighting the fact that despite the challenges that still exist for the effective implementation of the Declaration, some positive developments were presented during the discussion, including the efforts made by Member States and indigenous peoples to take into account in their activities and policies the study on the right to education prepared by the Expert Mechanism. For instance, she mentioned the consultation with aboriginal peoples undertaken by the Government of Australia on the new national plan for education. 58. Mr. Mencio Molintas welcomed the fact that support for the Declaration is expanding further, including in New Zealand, and he expressed the hope that the ongoing consideration of this issue in the Unites States of America and in Canada will soon result in the endorsement of the Declaration. 2 14 E/CN.4/Sub.2/1999/20, paragraph 90.

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