Joint Nordic statement at the high-level event to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the World Conference on Indigenous Peoples

Read the joint Nordic statement at the high-level event to commemorate the tenth anniversary of the World Conference on Indigenous Peoples, delivered by H.E. Ms. Elina Kalkku, Permanent Representative of Finland to the United Nations on 17 April 2024.

President,

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the five Nordic countries: Denmark together with Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden and my own country Finland.

We are here to celebrate an achievement that is as relevant today as it was 10 years ago: the Outcome Document of the World Conference on Indigenous Peoples. The Outcome Document showed a strong commitment from all of us, the UN Member States, to the protection and promotion of the rights of Indigenous Peoples all over the world.

The World Conference and the Outcome document, including its reference to the Alta Outcome Document, were in many ways historical. They proved that there is a will and a way to appreciate the vast contribution that Indigenous Peoples provide to our societies. The diverse cultures, livelihoods and ways of life, as well as traditional knowledge of lands, waters and natural resources are valuable in themselves, and  they also provide critical tools to address and find solutions to common challenges such as climate change and loss of biodiversity.

While it is important to celebrate the many steps taken in the past 10 years, we must also continue to push forward. The Nordic countries continue to advocate the enhanced participation of Indigenous Peoples in all relevant decision-making affecting them, including here at the UN. It is our sincere hope that during 2024 we will be  able to take concrete steps forward in this process, both here in New York as well as in Geneva. All discussions must be held in an inclusive manner with Indigenous Peoples, including with their representative bodies. 

The Nordic countries continue to stress the urgent need to address multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination faced by indigenous women and girls. The Outcome Document was clear in its message on their important role in achieving sustainable results. We strongly support and welcome the increased attention to the enjoyment of all human rights by Indigenous women and girls, in all their diversity.

We must also hear the voices of ‒ and listen to ‒ the Indigenous youth. We must engage with Indigenous youth, in all their diversity and from all different backgrounds. They are the real agents of change, and builders of the future. Enabling meaningful youth participation is a joint responsibility of all of us.

Nordic countries remain committed to the protection and promotion of the rights of Indigenous Peoples. You can count on our active and continued support to these efforts.

Thank you.