Chair,

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the European Union and its Member States.

The EU is a steadfast supporter of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which informs our approach to Indigenous Issues, covering the six mandated areas of the Permanent Forum.

10 years ago, at the launch of the SDGs, the UN Secretary General underlined the need to take Indigenous Peoples into account across the different goals and said that “Indigenous Peoples must not be left behind”.

Now, with only 5 years left, we know that we are not on track to meet the SDGs. In line with the Pact for the Future, we recognise that leaving no one behind requires strengthened partnerships and mobilisation of financial resources.

So we look forward to the important 4^th International Conference on Financing for Development in June. The EU stresses the need to be ambitious yet realistic. We need action and accountability. And we must recognise, build on and improve existing frameworks and achievements.

As the central UN platform for dialogue on the 2030 Agenda, the High Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development to be held in July will be key to progress. The EU is committed to strengthening multi-stakeholder engagement, and will continue to engage actively in all efforts to enhance the full, effective and meaningful participation of Indigenous Peoples’ representatives and institutions, as well as civil society, in relevant UN bodies on issues affecting them.

SDG5 is one of those under review this year. It aims to “Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls”. The EU will promote full, effective and meaningful participation and leadership of all women, including Indigenous women.

Also of particular interest is SDG16, which seeks to “Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development”. The reports of violence and brutality against Indigenous Peoples, including reprisals for taking part in this Forum, demand an effective response from all Member States and from the international community.

Later, in November, the World Social Summit will present an opportunity to renew a global social contract, anchored in human rights, and the ILO’s Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work. The EU supports broad participation at the Summit, including by Indigenous Peoples and other key stakeholders.

Thank you.