Statement by the Sámi Parliament in Finland, Sweden and Norway, 
the Saami Council and the Inuit Circumpolar Council

Presented by Maren Benedicte Nystad Storslett, the Sámi Parliament in Norway,
New York, April 22, 2026

Chair,

I give the statement on behalf of the Arctic socio-cultural region, Inuit and Sámi, by the Sámi Parliaments in Norway, Sweden and Finland, the Saami Council and the Inuit Circumpolar Council.

Across Indigenous Peoples' lands and territories, the rapid growth of renewable energy and extractive industries is placing heavy pressure on our rights. While framed as a response to the climate crisis, these projects frequently repeat long-standing patterns of marginalization and exclusion.

In the Arctic, Indigenous Peoples' culture and traditional ways of life are under growing strain as land-use conflicts become more frequent and widespread. The combined effect of these pressures leads to higher stress, economic insecurity, and worsening health conditions within our communities.

Research shows that increased stress, financial hardship and health challenges raise the risk of domestic violence. International studies on domestic violence and sexual abuse among Indigenous Peoples further indicate that loss of land and disruption of traditional ways of life are associated with higher levels of violence and abuse. Indigenous women and girls are the disproportionately affected.

We must see this as a human rights issue, not just as isolated social problems. The right of self-determination must be core and upheld in any development project. When Indigenous Peoples are kept out of decisions affecting their lands, territories and resources, when Free, Prior and Informed Consent is not implemented, and when our governance systems are weakened, the consequences are profound — particularly for women.

In our view, consultations cannot replace consent or self-determination. Inclusive decision-making processes must lead to concrete action. This includes ensuring effective implementation of rights of Indigenous Peoples in national legislation, safeguarding land rights, strengthening Indigenous Peoples' participation in decision‑making, and integrating gender‑responsive and culturally informed approaches into policies related to the green transition.

General Recommendation No. 39 provides important guidance here. It emphasizes that States must address the discrimination and violence faced by Indigenous women, including those linked to land dispossession and extractive activities.

In conclusion, we urge the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, EMRIP, and Member States to prioritize the implementation of General Recommendation No. 39 by monitoring how land dispossession from green transition projects impacts the safety of Indigenous women. We call on Member States to include these impacts in their periodic reporting to CEDAW. The so-called “green transition” cannot come at the expense of Indigenous girls and women’s safety, dignity, and human rights.

Thank you. Giitu.