Leaders from tropical forest nations are urging governments, philanthropies and private sector to take action at COP30. They want a historic commitment to scale up the recognition of land rights for Indigenous Peoples and local communities and a fresh wave of funding to back it up.
At a high-level event during the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, ministers and leaders stressed that protecting Indigenous land rights is one of the fastest and most effective ways to curb climate change—but action is falling short. The event was hosted by Brazil, Peru and Norway, three of the countries spearheading this effort that was first launched at COP29.
“Ahead of COP30 in Belem, I call on all governments to come together to recognise the lands and territories of Indigenous Peoples and local communities. The advancement of IPLC tenure rights is critical in achieving governments’ collective efforts to end deforestation by 2030. Alongside Norway and Peru, Brazil is excited to champion the Intergovernmental Land Tenure Commitment. This will be a critical element of the COP30 agenda.”
Her Excellency Sonia Guajajara, Brazilian Minister of Indigenous Peoples
A critical moment for climate and land rights
With COP30 just months away in Belém, Brazil, Norway and Peru are leading efforts to secure a historic commitment on land tenure for Indigenous Peoples and local communities across tropical forest countries, with support from the Forest & Climate Leaders’ Partnership (FCLP). The goal is for this commitment to be announced at COP30.
“Protecting Indigenous Peoples, and local communities’ land rights is one of the smartest, fastest, and most effective ways to protect tropical forests and fight climate change. At COP30, we have a historic opportunity to turn promises into action and stand with the communities who have protected these forests for generations”, said Andreas Bjelland Eriksen, Norwegian Minister of Climate and Environment.
More funding needed as the world races to stop deforestation
Tropical nations are also pushing for more money to make sure land rights commitments turn into reality. This builds on the $1.7 billion pledge from COP26, which runs out in 2025.
With climate goals at stake, leaders say COP30 is a crucial moment. Public and private donors must step up with real funding and governments with stronger policies to make sure Indigenous Peoples, and local communities get the recognition and resources they need to protect the planet.
“We welcome this call for the recognition of more Indigenous lands. Securing and protecting Indigenous territories is critical to combat the global climate and biodiversity crises. We are ready to contribute to strengthening this new commitment and urge governments to grasp the important opportunity it represents and commit to effectively protecting these territories”, said Kleber Karipuna, Co-Chair of the Global Alliance of Territorial Communities.