Permanent Forum of the Indigenous Peoples: Discussion on the six mandated areas of the Permanent Forum
Statement by the Republic of Estonia
Delivered by Ms. Kristel Lõuk, Deputy Permanent Representative of Estonia
19 April 2024, New York
Mister/Madam Chair, distinguished representatives of indigenous peoples, ladies and gentlemen,
Protection of the rights of indigenous peoples has been a vital part of Estonia’s human rights policy for decades. Indigenous peoples add to the diversity of the world, their unique languages and cultural traditions are irreplaceable elements of our common heritage.
Considerable steps have been taken towards the protection of indigenous peoples’ rights since the adoption of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. However, there are still great challenges to overcome in several parts of the world.
We welcome the focus of this year`s forum on the voices of indigenous youth. The participation of young people in political, social, and economic processes is crucial in the discussions that will shape their own future.
Mister/Madam Chair,
Estonia remains dedicated to the promotion of the rights of the Finno-Ugric peoples, the language family which Estonia itself belongs to. In this regard, we witness with deep regret that the rights of indigenous peoples, including Finno-Ugric peoples, are continually violated in the Russian Federation. The indigenous peoples seeking self-determination in Russia are risking their life and freedom. Human rights defenders as well as their families are persecuted and jailed. We are especially concerned of the exploitation of indigenous communities due to Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, as high number of young men are enlisted to the Russian Armed Forces. Worryingly, Russia also uses “law on foreign agents” and other legislative measures to create practical difficulties for indigenous organizations. In the same vein, the indigenous languages in Russia are facing serious restrictions and are in danger of extinction.
We also draw attention to the fate of the Crimean Tatars. Reports of illegal conscription of Crimean Tatars to the Russian Armed Forces are of great concern, as this practice is in clear violation of the International Humanitarian Law. Under the occupying authorities of Russian Federation, human rights of Crimean Tatars, in particular freedom of expression and freedom of religion are seriously curtailed among others.
Mister/Madam Chair,
Indigenous peoples suffer the worst impacts of climate change, whereas women are even more vulnerable in this regard. We stress that indigenous peoples need to be involved in decision-making processes.
To conclude, I would like to stress that it is paramount that the international community and organizations do everything possible to support indigenous peoples. Estonia strongly supports the mandate of the Special Rapporteur, The Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, as well as the work of the Permanent Forum and we continue to support the activities of the forum.
I thank you