Dev Kumar Sunuwar, representing Cultural Survival, a veteran indigenous-led organization, spoke at a recent event highlighting the urgent need for respecting indigenous rights in climate change initiatives. He emphasized that while global efforts like COP and green economy initiatives aim to address climate change, they often overlook the rights of indigenous communities. Sunuwar cited Nepal's ambitious hydropower projects, funded by international financial institutions, as a prime example where development has led to displacement, human rights violations, and a lack of free, prior, and informed consent from indigenous peoples.
Sunuwar stressed that despite existing safeguards like the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, indigenous communities continue to be marginalized. He called for greater accountability and transparency from international financial institutions and governments, demanding that impact assessments and project information be made available in indigenous languages. He also highlighted the need for meaningful participation of indigenous communities in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of green economy initiatives.
Sunuwar concluded by emphasizing the importance of recognizing indigenous peoples' deep connection to their land and resources. He called for a genuine partnership in addressing climate change, one that respects indigenous knowledge and ensures their voices are heard in the global conversation. He expressed hope that through dialogue and collaboration, a more just and equitable approach to environmental protection can be achieved.