In 1994, the United Nations General Assembly decided that the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples shall be observed on 9 August every year. The date marks the day of the first meeting, in 1982, of the UN Working Group on Indigenous Populations of the Sub-Commission on the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights.

Each year, UNESCO marks the celebration of the Day by sharing information on projects and activities that are relevant to the annual theme.

• 2016. Indigenous Peoples' Right to Education
• 2015. Post 2015 Agenda: Ensuring indigenous peoples' health and well-being"
• 2014. Bridging the gap: Implementing the rights of indigenous peoples
• 2013: Indigenous peoples building alliances: Honouring treaties, agreements and other constructive arrangements
• 2012: Indigenous Media, Empowering Indigenous Voices