2026 Coen Lecture: Indigenous Peoples' Rights in a Changing Global Landscape

The 66th annual John R. Coen Lecture, titled "Indigenous Peoples' Rights in a Changing Global Landscape," is organized by the University of Colorado Law School and the American Indian Law Program. This event features Dr. Albert Kwokwo Barume, U.N. Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and Dean Lolita Buckner Inniss of Colorado Law, who will discuss the evolving roles of Indigenous Peoples in addressing conflicts and promoting global stability and freedom.

Key topics include the retreat from international human rights norms and the significant contributions of Indigenous Peoples as advocates and diplomats in contemporary society. The lecture aims to shed light on the challenges and opportunities faced by Indigenous communities in the current global landscape.

The event is scheduled for February 26, 2026, from 5:30 to 6:30 pm in the Wittemyer Courtroom at the University of Colorado Law School, followed by a reception from 6:30 to 7:30 pm for in-person attendees. Both remote and in-person participation options are available, providing attendees with opportunities for networking and engagement with experts in the field.

This lecture is particularly relevant for legal professionals, scholars, students, and advocates interested in human rights, Indigenous law, and international relations. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the pressing issues affecting Indigenous communities worldwide and the legal frameworks that support their rights.