Thank you, mr/ms chair,

Distinguished delegates, 

The climate and biodiversity crises are among the greatest challenges of our time. Biodiversity is better preserved in areas managed by Indigenous Peoples. 

Our knowledge. Our voices. And our rights matter. 

Yet today, here at COP17, our rights are at risk. 

The UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples affirms our right to self-determination. And our right to full, meaningful and effective participation.  

These are not privileges. They are not negotiable. 

The Sami Parliament in Norway calls upon parties to stand up for the rights of Indigenous Peoples. Not only in statements, but also in the decisions you make. 

Indigenous Peoples are represented through seven sociocultural regions. Our representatives must be chosen by Indigenous Peoples themselves. Through our own structures and procedures. Without State approval.  

We cannot accept a modus operandi - a body established to enhance the participation and knowledge of Indigenous People - that undermines our rights. Neither can we accept that the participation of others comes at the expense of Indigenous Peoples. The distinction of Indigenous Peoples and local communities must be upheld.   

Distinguished Presidency of Armenia, 

I am now addressing you directly,  

The legacy of COP17 in Yerevan is at stake. Do you want this to be remembered as the COP where the rights of Indigenous Peoples' faced a push back?  

Do not allow desire for an outcome, override the human rights of Indigenous Peoples.  

If COP17 cannot agree on a modus operandi that respects our rights, then the decision must wait. 

No agreement is better than an agreement that undermines our rights. 

Distinguished delegates, 

You cannot “Take action for nature”, while undermining the rights of the Peoples who have protected it for generations. Thank you!