63rd session of UN Human Rights Council
Item 3 & 5 – Interactive dialogue with
the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
Nordic Baltic statement
24 September 2026
Mr. President,
I have the honor to speak on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries
We thank the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples for its study and for its continued engagement on issues of importance to Indigenous Peoples.
The study provides a timely basis for reflection and dialogue on the promotion and protection of the rights of Indigenous Peoples in conflict and post-conflict situations. This topic deserves continued attention, not least given the wide-ranging and often long-lasting consequences of conflict. As the study highlights, Indigenous Peoples can play an important role in efforts to prevent conflict and build sustainable peace, while Indigenous women and girls often bear a disproportionate share of the consequences of conflict.
We look forward to a constructive exchange on how the rights of Indigenous Peoples can be effectively promoted and protected, and to learning from the experiences, perspectives, and good practices shared during our discussions. In this regard, I would like to extend a special acknowledgement to the Indigenous Peoples’ representatives participating today, whose contributions are greatly valued.
In light of the study’s findings, what concrete steps can States take to uphold Indigenous Peoples’ right to self-determination and ensure their meaningful participation in conflict prevention, peace processes and post-conflict reconstruction?
Thank you.