Host Organisation

Assembly of First Nations, International Work Group for Indigenous Affairs, Indigenous Climate Action, University of British Columbia

Outline

Despite growing recognition in global policy and scientific processes, the ethical engagement of Indigenous Knowledge in climate science and policy remains largely aspirational, lacking the structural changes needed for effective climate action. This event launches an Indigenous-led Policy Guide with a Decolonial Institutional Assessment Tool for the ethical engagement of Indigenous Knowledge Systems within the UNFCCC. Co-produced with Indigenous Knowledge holders and representatives from the seven UN socio-cultural regions, it provides practical ethical principles, targeted recommendations, and diagnostic tools to strengthen global climate governance bodies' capacity for respectful and equitable engagement. The event will highlight how Indigenous self-determination and leadership are essential for just, effective climate action and planetary health. By centering Indigenous visions, rights, and governance systems, the Policy Guide responds to the International Indigenous Peoples' Forum on Climate Change calls to position Indigenous Peoples as rights-holders in global climate solutions. It also aims to support the development of the Ethics Protocol under the LCIPP Baku Workplan. Speakers—including Indigenous leaders, policy experts, and IPCC authors—will discuss persistent structural barriers and present how the Policy Guide aims to transform these into collaboration pathways. The session concludes with formal recommendations to the UNFCCC, offering concrete steps to centre Indigenous Knowledges in climate governance.

Speakers

Languages

EN SP