Indigenous Peoples are crucial allies in the effort to fight climate change. They represent over 476 million people worldwide (i.e., 6.2% of the global population according to the World Bank). In their traditional lands, which are often contested and threatened, they protect an important share of global biodiversity and hold local knowledge that is essential for effective and equitable climate policies. However, they are often overlooked in the policymaking process.
Voices from every corner of the world came together at the Global NDC Conference 2025. Among them were seven Indigenous representatives from Africa, Asia, and Latin America who brought with them something unique: the experience of generations living closely with nature, and a powerful call for climate action rooted in identity, tradition, and respect for the Earth. We sat down with them to hear how they see the connection between their communities and the global effort to implement NDCs. What we heard where not just reflections but reminders that real climate action starts with inclusion, trust, and recognition of the people who have protected nature the longest.
“My mother and grandmother taught me how to connect with the energies of water, plants, fire, and air that complement our existence. We must free ourselves and [find] common space to truly make progress and ensure that everything continues to flow like a river. Let us make a genuine effort to open this much needed dialogue at this conference, allowing us to find climate justice, guarantee the rights of Indigenous Peoples, women, and youth.” — Sara Omi, Indigenous Expert from the Emberá community in Panama, at the conference opening
Indigenous Peoples as policymakers
Indigenous leaders are increasingly stepping into roles as policymakers, negotiators, and advisors, bringing invaluable perspectives to national and international agendas. One example is Laka Nuri Sherpa, from the Sherpa Indigenous Community from Nepal, who came to the conference to present the findings of a study on the inclusion of Indigenous perspectives in NDC development and implementation, as well as to network with policymakers, donors and the private sector. Another is Balkisou Buba from Cameroon, who reflected on the opportunity to advocate for a change, especially when it comes to increasing Indigenous Peoples’ participation in the NDC process and tapping into knowledge that has been tested and proven over the years.
“In Asia, Indigenous Peoples are still almost invisible as rights holders and equal partners in national climate policies. We should be policymakers because our customary rules are working very well. Our indigenous view is not only about taking but about giving back to nature.” — Laka Nuri Sherpa, Head of the Environment Programme of Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact (AIPP)
“We are usually looked upon as beneficiaries in vulnerable situations. But we are not vulnerable, we are right holders. We have solutions and we can bring those solutions to the global stage as partners.” — Balkisou Buba, Vice National Coordinator of the Network of Indigenous and Local Populations for the Sustainable Management of Forest Ecosystems in Central Africa (REPALEAC) in Cameroon
A call for stronger collaboration and finance
While progress has been made in recognising Indigenous Peoples in climate policies, participants made it clear that true collaboration must go beyond acknowledgement. For instance, Eileen Mairena Cunningham, from the Waspam Community of the Wangki Awala Kupia Indigenous Territory on the Caribbean Coast of Nicaragua, underlined the increase of recognition of Indigenous Peoples in climate policy documents but recognised there is a long way to go when it comes to translating recognition into concrete action implemented in Indigenous lands and territories.
“Indigenous Peoples are contributing to adaptation and mitigation without financial support. Imagine how this could increase if we received direct access to funds. The problem is that we always come in late, but this conference was a great space to form alliances and build a path that we can walk together. It is important for us to be at the table, because if we are not, our voices will just disappear.”— Eileen Mairena Cunningham, Director of External Affairs of the Centre for the Development and Autonomy of Indigenous Peoples (CADPI)
Knowledge holders and guardians of biodiversity
For generations, Indigenous Peoples have cared for the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems using practices rooted in balance, respect, and observation. This lived experience came to life through stories of local stewardship and resilience strategies, which have been passed on for generations and are constantly evolving to fit the reality of a globalised world. Camila Paz Romero, from the Quechua community in Chile, reflected on the importance of recognising Indigenous youth leadership to face the challenges in climate protection.
“We are concerned about what is happening in the territories and the communities. That is why we work with our brothers and sisters to bring special attention to Indigenous Peoples’ rights at international levels and real inclusion. Attending this conference is an importance step that must continue. As Indigenous youth, we are so tired about promises and speaking about what must be done. In front of us, we have a generation that is failing, so we are worried about our generation and the next generation.” —Camila Romero, International Indigenous Youth Forum on Climate Change; Indigenous Centre for Integral Action (Chile)
“Who defines what a solution is? Maybe the government perspective is different from the perspective of communities. From an Indigenous People's perspective, human rights and the rights of Indigenous Peoples are solutions for climate actions and biodiversity protection. So, including a human rights-based approach in the overall framing of the NDC, in implementation, monitoring and reporting is very important." — Laka Nuri Sherpa, Head of the Environment Programme of Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact (AIPP)
The participation of Indigenous Peoples at the Global NDC Conference 2025 reminded us that progress toward climate goals depends on partnership, respect, and shared learning, especially when it comes to finding practical solutions that are fine-tuned to local contexts. As we wrapped up our conversations, one conclusion emerged: climate ambition, Indigenous knowledge and Indigenous rights are not separate paths; they are intertwined.
