Jessica Vega Ortega, a young Indigenous woman from the Mixtec Indigenous Peoples of Mexico, is attending COP28 with the hope of observing the government's efforts towards implementing changes that directly impact Indigenous communities at the grassroots level. She believes that prioritizing Indigenous youth within these programs is crucial, as it ensures their voices and perspectives are heard and taken into account, ultimately shaping sustainable solutions for their future.
Produced by Dev Kumar Sunuwar (Sunuwar)
Interviewee: Jessica Vega Ortega (Mixtec)

Minnie Degawan is an Indigenous Kankanaey-Igorot from the Cordillera region in the Philippines. She believes that Indigenous women play a crucial role in the fight to preserve our planet. They act as protectors of biodiversity and are responsible for safeguarding endangered species and ecosystems. Furthermore, they are the driving force behind climate solutions, using their innovative approaches to reduce emissions and build resilience. Due to their leadership and dedication, they are instrumental in shaping a sustainable future for generations to come.

During every COP gathering, individuals and organisations who defend the land and environment, as well as Indigenous communities, voice their need for increased safeguards for their territories against industries that harm the environment, including mining, logging, and industrial agriculture. Climate organizations like Global Witness frequently send delegates to advocate for quick and ambitious measures to address the climate emergency.
Cultural Survival attended COP28 in Dubai, from 30 November to 12 December 2023, and spoke to some of the delegates who attended.

Dr. Mirna Cunningham, an Indigenous Miskita from Nicaragua says, despite progress, Indigenous Peoples face ongoing challenges from climate change and extractive industries. They demand recognition of their rights, knowledge, and role in safeguarding water, forests, and resources. COP28 must amplify their voices and address critical concerns.
Produced by Dev Kumar Sunuwar (Sunuwar)
Interviewee: Mirna Cunningham (Miskita)
"LIBRES Y VIVAS " by MARE ADVETENCIA, used with permission.
"Burn your village to the ground", by The Halluci Nation, used with permission.

Mirian Masaquiza Jerez a senior Social Affairs Officer for the Department of Economic and Social Affairs at the United Nations says that Indigenous Peoples are actively participating in COP28 and engaging with delegates and member states. Their efforts are crucial to achieving meaningful climate action that safeguards the planet and respects Indigenous rights.
Produced by Dev Kumar Sunuwar (Sunuwar)
Interviewee: Mirian Masaquiza Jerez (Quichua)
"LIBRES Y VIVAS " by MARE ADVETENCIA, used with permission.

Joan Carling (Kankanaey) from the Philippines says that Indigenous Peoples' collective rights, territorial and land rights, and Free, prior, and informed consent must be respected while developing renewable energy solutions. Our knowledge and experiences are crucial for addressing climate change and sustainable development. We demand to be seen as partners and valued contributors to sustainable solutions.
Produced by Dev Kumar Sunuwar (Sunuwar)
Interviewee: Joan Carling (Kankanaey)
"LIBRES Y VIVAS " by MARE ADVETENCIA, used with permission.

Climate change is having a devastating impact on Indigenous communities, leading to droughts, floods, resource conflicts, displacement, and food insecurity. We urgently require access to water, support for our livelihoods, and a green economy that is based on Indigenous knowledge and respect. At COP28, it is crucial to establish a code of conduct that prioritizes Indigenous rights, protocols, and free, prior, informed consent. We must prioritize sustainable development over profit.
Produced by Dev Kumar Sunuwar (Sunuwar)
Interviewee: Adamu Kuleit Ole Mwarabu Lemareka (Maasai)

Despite the mechanisms in place to address climate change, including loss and damage, Indigenous peoples are still being left behind. The funding does not reach them directly, their rights are not respected, and even the new loss and damage fund excludes them. Gideon believes that we must continue to fight until the fund reaches those who need it the most.
Produced by Dev Kumar Sunuwar (Sunuwar)
Interviewee: Gideon Sanago (Maasai)
"LIBRES Y VIVAS " by MARE ADVETENCIA, used with permission.
"Burn your village to the ground", by The Halluci Nation, used with permission.

David Alberto Hernández Palmar, who is a Wayuu Indigenous filmmaker, highlights the importance of Indigenous-led media platforms in showcasing the voices of Indigenous Peoples who are leading the fight against environmental challenges, such as climate change. These media channels employ various forms of communication, including audio-visual, podcasting, and radio programs, to share Indigenous stories and perspectives with a broader audience.

The UAE has set forth three extra priorities for COP28, which include accelerating the energy transition to reduce emissions before 2030, revamping climate finance by fulfilling past commitments and establishing a new finance agreement, and prioritizing the well-being of nature, individuals, and livelihoods in climate action. 
Cultural Survival attended COP28 in Dubai, from 30 November to 12 December 2023, and spoke to some of the delegates who attended.
Produced by Shaldon Ferris (Khoisan)
Interviewee: Inka Saara  Arttijeff (Sami)