Mr. Chair,
Cuba supports the right of Indigenous Peoples to participate in decision-making on matters affecting them, including within the United Nations system. This right is enshrined in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
We also uphold the need to ensure the means necessary for such participation to be effective, that is, to translate into tangible and sustainable benefits for Indigenous Peoples and the protection of their rights.
Participation in the United Nations system is not only fair, useful and necessary for Indigenous Peoples. It is also beneficial for States, as the diversity and wisdom of these peoples—part of the common heritage of humanity—contribute to peace, development, mutual understanding, and friendly relations among nations and peoples.
Twenty years after the adoption of the Declaration, the participation of Indigenous Peoples in the United Nations has become firmly established. Today, they have their own voice and a genuine capacity to influence decision-making in mechanisms such as the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.
Cuba has also recognized and welcomed the progress achieved in the participation of Indigenous Peoples’ representatives in the Human Rights Council's interactive dialogues with the Special Rapporteur on the rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
This participation is unique and exceptional in nature, and we support it in light of the specific challenges faced by Indigenous Peoples. At the same time, we have emphasized that this decision, adopted in recognition of the unique status of Indigenous Peoples, does not constitute a precedent for other population groups.
Cuba believes that the effective participation of Indigenous Peoples in the United Nations should not be limited to merely providing opportunities to take part in meetings. It is equally important to promote concrete measures that enable Indigenous Peoples to use these forums to showcase their rich traditions, cultures and ancestral knowledge.
Strengthening multilingualism in these forums, including through the promotion of Indigenous languages, must remain a priority in order to ensure the participation of Indigenous Peoples on an equal footing, in line with the objectives of the International Decade of Indigenous Languages (2022–2032).
In conclusion, Cuba will continue to support the important role of the United Nations in protecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples and promoting their development, in accordance with their aspirations and needs.
We will also continue to advocate within the organs and specialized agencies of the United Nations system for concrete actions that contribute to the full implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, including through the mobilization of financial cooperation and technical assistance.
Thank you.