Indigenous leaders have presented a 12-point plan to the United Nations calling for stronger protections of their rights, lands, and participation in global decisions amid growing threats from climate change and other crises.
The plan was finalized last week by the seven Indigenous members of the United Nations Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. It urges governments and the UN to take rapid action on issues including language preservation, data sovereignty, and legal recognition of Indigenous rights separate from broader human rights frameworks.
Cora McGuire-Cyrette, speaking for the Ontario Native Women’s Association, said communities have a right to action that is not being seen globally. Delegates also stressed greater inclusion of Indigenous women in decisions affecting their lives.
Albert Barume, the UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, described a trend of stagnation and regression, noting that almost no states have taken new protective measures in recent years. Funding shortfalls now threaten the future of EMRIP and related UN bodies, with the Voluntary Fund for Indigenous Peoples supported by just eight countries and a budget under $2 million.