SIRGE Coalition to Attend COP16 in Cali, Colombia: Monitoring Key Decisions Impacting Indigenous Peoples
SIRGE Coalition to Attend COP16 in Cali, Colombia: Monitoring Key Decisions Impacting Indigenous Peoples
SIRGE Coalition is proud to announce its participation at the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), taking place in Cali, Colombia, from October 21 to November 1, 2024. COP16 marks a pivotal moment for global biodiversity, as the first conference following the landmark approval of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) in 2022, and a key opportunity to assess countries' progress in implementing its 4 goals and 23 targets.
Bryan Bixcul (Maya-Tz'utujil), SIRGE Global Coordinator Benjamin Hitchcock Auciello, Earthworks
Honoring Indigenous Peoples from Colombia: Guardians of Biodiversity
We extend our deepest respect to the Indigenous peoples of Colombia, on whose ancestral lands COP16 is taking place. From the Amazon rainforest to the Andean highlands, Indigenous communities in Colombia have demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of ongoing challenges. Colombia remains one of the most dangerous countries for environmental defenders, with Indigenous leaders at the forefront of defending their lands and rights. The SIRGE Coalition is honored to amplify your voices and stand with you during COP16.
The First COP After the KMGBF
COP16 will serve as a critical forum for assessing global progress towards the ambitious goals of the KMGBF. The SIRGE Coalition will closely monitor the negotiations, advocating for the full respect of the rights and invaluable contributions of Indigenous Peoples—key actors in the successful achievement of biodiversity targets. The decisions made at COP16 will have far-reaching and long-lasting impacts on Indigenous territories and the ecosystems they steward and protect.
Key Areas of Focus for Indigenous Peoples at COP16
At COP16, we will be monitoring and engaging in discussions around:
Target 3 ('30x30'): Advocating for Indigenous governance and preventing the exclusion of Indigenous Peoples from their lands under conservation measures.
Funding and Resource Mobilization: Calling for direct and adequate financial support for Indigenous-led conservation efforts, which is key for achieving the goals and targets of the KMGBF.
Climate and Biodiversity Nexus: Highlighting how climate change disproportionately impacts Indigenous territories and advocating for true solutions rooted in Traditional Knowledge that address both crises.
Access and Benefit-Sharing Mechanisms for the use of Digital Sequence Information (DSI) of Genetic Resources: Advocating for the adoption of a multilateral benefit-sharing mechanism that ensures that the benefits arising from genetic resources are shared fairly and equitably with Indigenous Peoples, and that the Traditional Knowledge and Intellectual Property rights of Indigenous Peoples are respected when using DSI of genetic resources.
Energy Transition Conversations: We will follow the several conversations at COP16 about the Energy Transition, a key area that intersects with Indigenous Peoples' rights and biodiversity protection. These discussions are essential in ensuring that the shift towards cleaner energy does not come at the expense of Indigenous rights and territories. We will also be disseminating information on the outcomes of the Indigenous Summit on Just Transition, held in Geneva, Switzerland on October 8-10.
Join the conversation with SIRGE Coalition in Cali
As part of our engagement, the SIRGE Coalition is co-organizing events during COP16 that focus on the intersection of Indigenous rights, biodiversity, and just transition efforts. These events will highlight critical issues such as challenges for Indigenous Peoples arising from Just Transition efforts, and the role of Indigenous leadership in achieving global biodiversity goals. More information about these events can be found below.
Find Your Match to Drive Action for a Safe and Just Planet
Date: Thursday, October 24
Time: 10:30–11:30 p.m. COT
Location: Nature Positive Pavilion (Small Room), Blue Zone
Register: HERE
The workshop will help participants understand the importance of systems thinking to achieve a safe and just planet. Small groups (5–6 participants) will exchange ideas based on geographic or thematic interests, with discussions facilitated in native languages (Spanish, Portuguese/Brazilian, French, and English). Participants will brainstorm initiatives that align with the Global Commons Alliance 2030 Strategy and partner initiatives.
A Safe & Just Energy Transition: Securing Indigenous Peoples Rights and Protecting Nature in the Sourcing of Transition Minerals
Date: Wednesday, 30 October
Time: 10:30–11:30 COT
Location: Nature Positive Pavilion (Blue Zone)
Register: HERE
Join us for a crucial discussion on how protecting Indigenous Peoples' rights is essential to halting biodiversity loss and addressing the unintended impacts of transition mineral extraction. This event will explore solutions for ensuring Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC).
Read Our Latest Article focused on the Implementation of Target 15 of the KMGBF
Discover how the intersection of Indigenous rights, biodiversity, and the global energy transition presents both challenges and opportunities in implementing Target 15 of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. This insightful article explores key issues that will shape the future of sustainable development and conservation. Read on to understand how Indigenous communities are central to achieving these ambitious goals.
A Word of Thanks
We express our deep admiration for the Indigenous Peoples of the world, whose resilience continues to inspire our work each day. We also extend heartfelt gratitude to our supporters and readers who share our commitment to securing the rights of Indigenous Peoples in the global transition to a green economy. Your support is essential in driving meaningful change.
For more information, please contact:
Noreen Quadir at noreen@sirgecoalition.org