It is with deep affection and respect that, on behalf of the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity, I join this commemoration of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples from Mohawk Territory, the seat of the Secretariat. This year’s theme – the Role of Indigenous Women in the Preservation and Transmission of Traditional Knowledge – speaks directly to the Convention and to the development of the post-2020 global biodiversity framework.
Indigenous women have long been caretakers of the variety of life on the planet. Their intimate knowledge of the natural world has allowed indigenous peoples to live in harmony with nature over generations. They continue to pass down cultural values, knowledge, and information about their local ecosystems to future generations. Indeed, as key preservers and transmitters of traditional knowledge, indigenous women play a vital role in their community.
Traditional knowledge offers an invaluable asset to stop biodiversity loss. This knowledge will be needed as the international community comes together to adopt the post-2020 global biodiversity framework at the upcoming COP-15 running from December 7 through to 19, 2022.
The proposed action-oriented targets include:
• access to information,
• safeguards for traditional knowledge,
• actions for equitable participation of indigenous peoples in decision-making related to biodiversity, and
• a gender-responsive approach in the implementation of the framework.
In addition, COP-15 is also tasked with adopting the Gender Plan of Action to ensure meaningful and effective engagement and empowerment of indigenous women and girls.
Without the full participation, engagement and commitment of indigenous women, efforts to attain a sustainable future cannot reach their full potential. As we commemorate this International Day, let us redouble our efforts to ensure that indigenous women and their role in transmitting and maintaining traditional knowledge are fully recognized, reminding us that we are all part of same Mother Earth. Thank you and happy international day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples.