Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Natural Resources, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
The Indigenous Diplomacy and Engagement Act establishes a new Office for Indigenous Affairs within the State Department, headed by a Senate-confirmed Coordinator for Indigenous Affairs with ambassador-level rank. The bill directs the President to develop a comprehensive five-year strategy every five years for promoting diplomacy and engagement with Indigenous peoples worldwide, focusing on 10 to 20 countries with significant Indigenous populations. The Coordinator will oversee coordination across federal agencies including State, Interior, USAID, and others to support Indigenous rights, health, education, economic development, and participation in decisions affecting their lands and resources. The bill creates an Advisory Commission on Indigenous Peoples composed of academics, NGO representatives, Indigenous leaders, and government officials to provide annual recommendations on best practices. Additionally, the bill requires the State Department to train foreign service officers on the history, culture, and engagement strategies for Indigenous communities near their assigned posts. No specific funding amount is set, but the bill authorizes "such sums as may be necessary" for the new office, with annual reports due to Congress every four years to track implementation and effectiveness.
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