HRC57 - Interactive Dialogue with the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

57^th session

Interactive Dialogue with the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

26 September 2024

EU statement

Distinguished members of the Expert Mechanism,

The European Union welcomes this Discussion and congratulates the Expert Mechanism for the extensive work carried out over the last year.

We reaffirm the EU's continued strong commitment to the promote, fulfil and protect the rights of Indigenous Peoples as set out in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and international human rights law.

In your report you address the right of Indigenous Peoples to participate in decision-making in matters that affect their rights, through representatives of their choosing as outlined in article 18 of the UNDRIP. The EU supports the full, effective and meaningful participation of Indigenous Peoples on all issues affecting them. Within the UN, efforts to enhance the participation of Indigenous Peoples have progressed, but challenges such as accreditation and language barriers still limit full participation.

More broadly, it is critical for States to collaborate meaningfully with Indigenous Peoples. Whether through legislative reforms or peace negotiations, Indigenous Peoples have the right, as set out in the UNDRIP, to be involved from the start, shaping policies affecting their rights, lands, and livelihoods. Ensuring this participation strengthens governance and peacebuilding, aligning with UNDRIP's vision of justice, equality, and respect for Indigenous Peoples' rights and cultural heritage.

Distinguished panelists,

What do you see as next steps in terms of realizing the full, effective and meaningful participation of Indigenous Peoples across the UN on all issues affecting them?

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