Minister Sonia Guajajara Leads Efforts to Address Climate Change Impact on Indigenous Communities
Article:
As COP28 converges on Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Brazil’s delegation proudly sees Minister Sonia Guajajara at its helm, championing the cause of Indigenous Peoples in the global climate discourse. Minister Guajajara, serving in this role since President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s departure from Dubai on December 3rd, emphasizes the crucial role of Indigenous voices in climate solutions.
“In proximity to nature and its resources, Indigenous peoples often bear the brunt of climate change’s harmful effects,” states Minister Guajajara. “Yet, they are also uniquely positioned to contribute solutions for adaptation and mitigation, necessitating their active inclusion in discussions.”
Guajajara’s COP28 team includes key figures such as Ceiça Pitaguary, Secretary of Indigenous Environmental and Territorial Management, Jozileia Kaingang, Deputy Secretary for Articulation and Promotion of Indigenous Rights, and Joenia Wapichana, President of the National Indigenous Peoples Foundation (FUNAI).
A central focus of Minister Guajajara’s discussions at COP28 is stressing the urgency of limiting global warming to 1.5ºC, particularly highlighting the significance of demarcating Indigenous territories worldwide. With over half of Brazil’s Indigenous population residing in the Amazon, she passionately advocates for an end to deforestation, intertwining climate action with justice and human rights for the forest-dwelling communities.
As the Minister steers Brazil’s representation at COP28, her unwavering commitment to amplifying Indigenous voices and addressing climate challenges underscores the importance of diverse perspectives in shaping a sustainable future.