International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples: Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union

Despite their rich histories and cultures, many Indigenous Peoples remain among the world's most marginalised communities. Increasing competition over natural resources and land, as well as the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution puts Indigenous Peoples particularly at risk.

The EU is keenly aware of the need to ensure that the green transition is just and inclusive. To be sustainable, the necessary bold decisions and initiatives have to fully respect and protect human rights, including the rights of Indigenous Peoples. The EU is guided by this principle in its policymaking, including in the Deforestation Regulation, the Critical Raw Materials Act and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive.

In addition to other targeted EU projects in support of Indigenous Peoples around the world, the Indigenous Navigator- a set of tools developed by and for Indigenous Peoples - informs and enables the EU's advocacy strategies on climate change, human rights and environmental due diligence.

On the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, the European Union reaffirms its commitment to support Indigenous Peoples within and outside the Union, and to respect, protect and fulfil their rights as set out in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and international human rights law.