Advancing a just transition with indigenous peoples

Ana Virgínia Moreira Gomes, ILO Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, said; "the Global Dialogue is not just an opportunity to share knowledge but also to build alliances between governments, employers, workers, and, most importantly, indigenous and tribal peoples themselves. They must be at the center of this transition-not just as beneficiaries, but also as key actors and development partners."

The event, the first of its kind, showcased concrete examples of how communities are leading innovative projects to mitigate the impact of climate change and promote economic and social inclusion.

Tarcila Zea Rivera, President of the International Indigenous Women's Forum, said: "It has been very encouraging to participate in this dialogue. We had the chance to listen to others and be heard about the issues that affect us all. If we all aspire to better societies, we must respect everyone's participation, voice, and aspirations."

The ILO Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989 (No. 169), was also a central topic. This framework ensures that Indigenous peoples can fully exercise their rights, participate in decision-making processes, and contribute to sustainable development.

"Public policies cannot be designed without ensuring Indigenous peoples' rights. Prior consultation is a fundamental right and must be the cornerstone of decisions related to their territories and resources," said Gomes Moreira.

The commitments outlined by the Dialogue included:

• Promoting the implementation and ratification of Convention No. 169 in more countries.
• Building institutionalized mechanisms for dialogue, consultation, and participation.
• Ensuring access to culturally relevant vocational training programs.
• Combating discrimination and structural racism affecting Indigenous and tribal peoples.
• Encouraging Indigenous women's active participation at all decision-making levels and recognizing their contributions to development.
• Strengthening Indigenous livelihoods by supporting entrepreneurial and cooperative initiatives.

"I am very pleased with the results, the participation, and this dialogue between parties with distinct visions and interests, where we tried to find common ground," said Rodrigo Paillalef, a Mapuche community member from Chile and a member of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.

The event concluded with a collective call for discussions to continue, with Gomes Moreira noting; "this Dialogue is only the beginning of a long and challenging road, but one full of opportunities. Let's continue working together to ensure that a just transition becomes a reality for all."

Organized in collaboration with the ILO International Training Centre, the Dialogue included participants from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, the Philippines, Guatemala, Kenya, Malaysia, Namibia, Nepal, Nigeria, Norway, New Zealand, Peru, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Switzerland and Uruguay.