UNESCO is particularly concerned by the issue of indigenous peoples as it deals with questions relating to their situation in terms of human rights, discrimination, gender equality, poverty eradication, democracy, sciences and social transformations, including urbanization and migration. In 2012-2013, the organization has prioritized working on social inclusion policies, for three groups of potentially disadvantaged people: migrants, persons with disabilities, and indigenous minorities, with a focus on youth.

The focus is put on comparative policy analysis of the level of inclusiveness of policies.