support for the theme and goals of the Year. 36/ While arguably superficial official messages which are given wide publicity can constitute political commitments, and influence subsequent national policies and action. Since tl field of indigenous rights is still evolving - and controversial - it would seem useful to use an international year to formalize a global political commitment to difficult but essential concepts such as self-development and autonomy. E. National institutions 18. Previous years have called for the establishment of various kinds of national institutions, both a co-ordinating mechanism for activities during the year itself, and for follow-up activities. The establishment of national women's commissions or bureaux was one of the recommendations of the International Women's Year, for example, 37/ and was in fact the major goal fixed for the year by the Economic Commission for Africa. 38/ Similarly, establishment of "national focal points" for action was among the objectives of the International Year of Shelter for the Homeless. 39/ 19. The establishment of national-level indigenous agencies is a requirement of both ILO Conventions No. 107 and 169, but this in itself is not necessaril helpful. Indigenous peoples themselves would be suspicious of participating in national-level boards or commissions which could be used to displace genuine grassroots indigenous organizations, and to legitimize government actions. A more meaningful approach would be to support the development of indigenous peoples' own organizations, and to encourage national meetings of indigenous peoples themselves, which could offer some policy direction to Governments. A year thus might concentrate on promoting national institution of indigenous peoples. F. State reports 20. In at least one instance the programme for a year included a monitoring mechanism. As part of the International Year of Shelter for the Homeless, States were invited to develop projects and to include information about them 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing the theme and goals of an international year, specifically focusing on indigenous rights and the establishment of national institutions to support indigenous peoples. The language used suggests a focus on human rights and social development, rather than economic or environmental issues.

**Category**
Education, Humanitarian aid and relief, Culture