COP17 in Mongolia: Indigenous peoples denounce an American blockade

The protesters called for the reinstatement of discussions specifically on gender and the participation of indigenous peoples and local communities. They believe that their presence in consultation spaces does not guarantee them real influence over decisions.

The official report from the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification confirms that the conference adopted its provisional agenda without several items and postponed their examination to continue consultations. The document mentions interventions from the United States and other delegations, without officially attributing the postponement to a single country.

A report from Agência Brasil published on August 20, however, indicates that topics related to gender and social participation were set aside at the request of Washington. The adoption of the agenda requires consensus among the 197 parties to the Convention.

Participation Still Considered Too Limited

Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim, leader of the Association of Indigenous Peul Women of Chad, stated that the participation of indigenous peoples should not remain symbolic. She called for recognition of their territorial rights, their knowledge, and their role in land protection.

The COP16 in Riyadh had created a caucus for indigenous peoples and a caucus for local communities to better integrate their perspectives into the work of the Convention. In Ulaanbaatar, the mobilized representatives believe that these spaces must now translate into full participation in negotiations.

Indigenous organizations highlight their experience in managing pastures, water, and drought-affected territories. They demand that their land rights and consent be considered in restoration programs that may directly affect their communities.

The official program of COP17 includes a “Land and Peoples” day on August 26, with a caucus dedicated to women herders and pastoralists, as well as a special event focusing on indigenous peoples and local communities.