Indigenous Diplomacy and Engagement Act

This bill creates a new Office for Indigenous Affairs to guide U.S. diplomacy and engagement with Indigenous peoples in other countries. A Coordinator, who reports to the Secretary of State and has ambassador-level rank, leads the work, can represent the U.S. in international meetings, and coordinates programs and funding across agencies. The office focuses on areas like health, education, economic development, human rights, and protection during crises. It also authorizes funding as needed to carry out these duties .

Within one year, the President (through the Coordinator) must develop a 5-year plan that identifies 10–20 countries, sets clear goals and metrics, and lays out programs and resources. The plan is built with input from agencies like State, USAID, Interior, and others, and is meant to have long‑term impact. A report to Congress is due one year after the plan is submitted and every four years after, describing progress, partnerships, funding, and recommended improvements .

The bill also sets up an Advisory Commission on Indigenous Peoples at the State Department, including members from national Native organizations, to advise and issue an annual report. U.S. diplomats will receive added training about nearby Indigenous communities before serving overseas, with guidance on respectful engagement and support .

Key points

• Who is affected: U.S. diplomats and agencies (State, USAID, Interior), Indigenous communities in other countries, and Native organizations that help advise U.S. policy .
• What changes: A new office and Coordinator; a 5‑year international plan; periodic reports to Congress; an advisory commission; mandatory training for diplomats; and authorized funding to support these actions .
• When: Plan due within 1 year and updated every 5 years; report due 1 year after the plan and every 4 years after; the commission reports annually by April 1; training becomes part of standard pre‑departure instruction for overseas posts .