Indigenous values and voices to tackle climate change was the focus of a gathering in Port Douglas on Kuku Yalanji Country this month.
Australia hosted the UNFCCC Local Communities and Indigenous Peoples Platform (LCIPP) Pacific Regional Gathering with First Nations people and Indigenous Peoples from the Pacific and governments from Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific.
The event focused on the impacts of climate change on ecosystems and the lives of Indigenous Peoples and how to achieve holistic solutions.
Australia’s First Nations peoples and our Pacific Indigenous neighbours are on the front lines of climate change. They are also leaders in transformative actions and strategies passed on from generations.
The gathering included an exchange between Indigenous Peoples followed by a dialogue with other stakeholders. Discussions focused on sharing knowledge and strategies to inform climate action and how to then take that action in a way that respects and promotes human rights and Indigenous cultures.
Participant selection and agenda development for the gathering was Indigenous-led. This effort was championed by Ms. Cathryn Eatock, who represented both the Indigenous Peoples Organisation of Australia and the Facilitative Working Group of the LCIPP.
Australia will continue building Indigenous knowledge and action into our climate efforts, based on lessons learned at the gathering.
