Biodiversity thrives in the care of Indigenous communities. As much as 80% of the world’s remaining forest biodiversity lies within Indigenous Peoples’ territories, and Indigenous and community lands store at least 24% of the above-ground carbon in the world’s tropical forests

It is important for us as Indigenous Peoples to ensure a generational transition to a more sustainable world. Our elders, our parents, children and children’s children need to know and access platforms and mechanisms under the UNFCCC. This is particularly important for Indigenous women and girls.

Our discussions and rich exchanges in Girkonjárga-Kirkenes will undoubtedly guide and shape our collective climate change initiatives moving forward. The LCIPP under the UNFCCC offers an inclusive space to share these outcomes. It is a platform to discuss the impacts of climate change on our lives and the Arctic, to identify needs, and to reshape the global approach to nature and climate change.