HRC48 - NB8 statement - Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP)

Human Rights Council – 48th session

Interactive Dialogue with Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP)

Statement by Norway on behalf of the Nordic Baltic countries

28 September 2021

I have the honour of delivering this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.

We appreciate the valuable work of the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and welcome its annual report. 

The report raises important issues with regards to the rights of the Indigenous Peoples. This includes proposals on participation of indigenous peoples in the Human Rights Council, and ensuring consultation with indigenous peoples and respect for their rights, including in the response to, and recovery from, the COVID-19 crisis.

We support your call for protection of indigenous human rights defenders. Threats, harassment and violence is unacceptable. We also stand with you in condemning reprisals against indigenous leaders, human rights defenders and UN mandate holders for engaging in UN meetings.

Concerning the International Decade of Indigenous Languages, we encourage UNESCO and the international society at large to make a long-lasting commitment to save and strengthen indigenous peoples’ languages. Full, equal and meaningful participation by indigenous peoples, both nationally and internationally, is crucial.

Madam President,

What is the best way to ensure that the rights of indigenous peoples get more attention on the international agenda?