Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues: Discussion on the six mandated areas of the Permanent Forum
Statement delivered by H.E. Rein Tammsaar, Permanent Representative of Estonia
25 April 2025, New York
Chair, distinguished representatives of indigenous peoples, ladies and gentlemen,
I am honoured to be here today to reaffirm our commitment to advancing the rights of indigenous peoples. Estonia continues to work to ensure that rights of indigenous peoples are respected and upheld globally in accordance with international law and standards.
In this regard, we welcome this year’s theme of the Permanent Forum [“Implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples within United Nations Member States and the United Nations system, including identifying good practices and addressing challenges”]. It is essential to evaluate the progress made in advancing rights of indigenous peoples across different regions and countries. Despite progress in some parts of the world, we see regress in others.
Chair,
Estonia remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing the rights of Finno-Ugric peoples, to which Estonia itself belongs. Unfortunately, Russia keeps on marginalizing Finno-Ugric and other indigenous peoples in its territory. They erode their identities, while subjecting them to torture and threats. They are labelling indigenous organizations as “extremist”, “foreign agents” or “undesirable”.
In the same vein, the Crimean Tatars are facing systemic persecution and violations of their rights under the occupying Russian authorities. It is particularly worrying that Russian regime forcefully mobilizes Crimean Tatars and other indigenous peoples to fight against Ukraine. Tragically, the resulting war casualties are threatening the survival of some smaller indigenous groups.
Chair,
Estonia highly values international exchange and collaboration, including through UNESCO, to ensure that indigenous languages are protected from extinction. In partnership with Namibia, Estonia has organized heritage hackathons that have shown great outcomes in preserving and promoting indigenous languages. As a digital nation, Estonia uses technology platforms, aiming to support the preservation of indigenous languages. These platforms facilitate language learning, ensure digital accessibility, and preserve linguistic heritage.
Chair,
Estonia stresses the importance of ensuring meaningful participation of indigenous peoples, particularly women, in decision-making processes. Active involvement of indigenous women in policies that involve them is crucial, including in tackling challenges such as climate change.
To conclude, Estonia firmly supports the mandate of the Special Rapporteur and the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and we remain committed to the activities of the Permanent Forum.
I thank you.
