Over sixty delegations are attending the Unrepresented Nations
and Peoples Organization's (UNPO) 3rd General Assembly -
almost twice last year's number. Increased interest has also
come from national governments, international organisations
and NGOs, all represented by a growing body of observers.

During the five day Assembly current members vote on the
admission of new members, hear reports of members' problems
and pass resolutions on future UNPO actions.

Leading figures from indigenous and unrepresented peoples from
around the world will attend. Some of the expected leaders are
President Dudaev of Chechen, President Ibrahim Rugova of
Kosova, Dr Costa of East Timor and Mr R Mariqueo representing
the Mapuche from Argentina.

This year's Assembly also includes a special, two day session
on the right to self determination in relation to human rights
and environmental protection. A number of guest speakers,
including H.S.H Prince Hans-Adam II of Liechtenstein, Mr D
Omar, ANC executive committee member and Mrs M Maguire chair-
person of "The Peace People" from Belfast will speak.

The UNPO was founded in February 1991 and has become know as
the "alternative U.N.". Today its members represent over 100
million people. UNPO acts as a forum for nations and peoples
that are inadequately represented in international organizations
such as the United Nations. The UNPO supports its members
in their struggle for cultural autonomy, self determination or
independence - depending on their specific aims.

Opening ceremony begins at 9.30am on Tuesday, January 19 at
the Provinciehuis, Koninginnekade 1, The Hague, The Netherlands.