Mr.President,

I have the honor to speak on behalf of a group of countries. We are deeply concerned about serious violation of human rights of indigenous people by some countries. In history, countries in question oppressed and massacred indigenous people, some even committed genocide. Up to this day, countries in question are still enforcing discriminatory legislation and policies against indigenous people, looting their land and resources, depriving them of rights in all aspects, including the right to political participation, health care, education, employment, etc. Indigenous people in these countries have long been subject to systemic and structural discrimination and inequality, and their living conditions further deteriorated under the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

We urge countries in question to correct their wrongs, repeal discriminatory legislation, policies and practices, investigate human rights violations against indigenous people, hold those responsible accountable, provide reparations to the victims, and do indigenous people delayed but not denied justice. We call on the Human Rights Council,OHCHR and relevant Special Procedures mandate holders pay more attention to human rights violations against indigenous people in history and reality by countries in question, monitor and urge those countries to correct their mistakes, and take substantive measures to promote and protect the rights of indigenous people.

Thank you, Mr. President.