Every year on August 9th, the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples sheds light on the remarkable contributions and resilience of Indigenous communities. This year's theme, "Indigenous Youth as Agents of Change for Self-determination," places a spotlight on the vital role played by young Indigenous leaders in shaping our collective future. With a strong focus on fostering a green climate transition, mobilizing for justice, and fostering intergenerational connections, the celebration amplifies the urgent need for action in the face of biodiversity loss and climate change.

Indigenous peoples and local communities have emerged as a beacon of hope amidst the intensifying planetary crises. These remarkable custodians of the Earth's most essential ecosystems, home to a staggering 80 percent of the world's biodiversity, and immense stocks of carbon, hold the key to keeping our planet within safe planetary boundaries. Recognizing their indispensable role, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) was adopted during the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity. The GBF outlines a bold roadmap for achieving harmonious coexistence between people and nature by 2050. In Target 22 of the GBF, the full and effective participation of Indigenous and local communities is emphasized, with a specific focus on inclusive representation of youth.

In this pivotal moment, where our future hangs in the balance, it is imperative that Indigenous youth are given a seat at decision-making tables. These young leaders exercise their right to self-determination by actively shaping policies that will determine our collective destiny. The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples serves as a poignant reminder of their remarkable contributions. Indigenous youth are mobilizing communities, shifting the narrative around Indigenous peoples, and raising awareness about the issues they face. They foster intergenerational dialogue, revitalizing and promoting their cultural identities while combating the pressing challenges posed by climate change and biodiversity loss.

Celebrating its 21st anniversary, the Equator Initiative, a UNDP-led partner initiative, plays a pivotal role in recognizing and celebrating outstanding Indigenous-led and community-based organizations through the Equator Prize. In 2023, 10 exceptional initiatives have been awarded the prestigious Equator Prize, joining a network of 275 previous winners. These initiatives have been carefully selected from a pool of over 500 nominations, spanning 108 countries. Many of them serve as shining examples of intergenerational equity and showcase the role of youth, including Indigenous youth-led efforts, and all of them exemplify the power of nature-based solutions in driving transformative change for a nature-positive future.

The Equator Prize winning organizations, spearheaded by Indigenous peoples and local communities, also showcase the immense potential and creativity that arises from collaborative partnerships. These initiatives exemplify how Indigenous youth can lead the way in crafting sustainable and inclusive solutions that benefit both people and the planet. Their efforts embody the spirit of self-determination and serve as important milestones in our collective journey towards a more just, resilient, and environmentally balanced world.

As we commemorate the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, let us acknowledge the significant contributions made by Indigenous youth. Let us celebrate their unwavering dedication, their role as agents of change, and their capacity to shape a brighter and more sustainable future for all. By embracing their wisdom, cultural richness, and deep connection to the Earth, we can forge a path towards a world where nature and humanity thrive in harmony. UNDP will be celebrating all 10 winners during this year’s Nature for Life Hub in early November – please join us!