International Indigenous Peoples Forum Opens in Krasnoyarsk with Biodiversity and Climate at Center
Dragon Media News Desk
An International Indigenous Peoples Forum has opened in Krasnoyarsk, Russia, focusing on indigenous rights, biodiversity, climate change and the preservation of traditional knowledge.
The forum, running from August 13 to 16, brings together more than 700 participants from 14 countries and 27 regions of Russia. Participants include representatives of indigenous peoples from Russia, Asia, North and South America, the Arctic, Africa and the Pacific, alongside government officials, experts, researchers and business representatives.
The main theme of the forum is “Indigenous Peoples in the Context of Biodiversity and Climate.” Discussions are focusing on improving legal standards for the protection of indigenous rights and interests, expanding indigenous participation in decision-making, conserving biodiversity, adapting to climate change, and integrating traditional knowledge into modern environmental protection mechanisms.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a message to participants, organisers and guests, said the preservation of indigenous languages, distinctive cultures and customs is an important issue on the global agenda.
Putin said protecting this heritage requires joint efforts by state institutions and international organisations, adding that Russia is prepared to expand constructive cooperation in this field with all interested partners.
He also noted that government agencies, civil society organisations and volunteers in Russia are working to preserve the historical and spiritual heritage of indigenous peoples, improve living standards and address social and economic challenges facing their communities.
The forum is also examining the role of cultural heritage and traditional knowledge in the development of communities dependent on reindeer herding, fishing and traditional hunting. Particular attention is being given to how indigenous practices developed over generations can contribute to modern biodiversity conservation and climate-adaptation policies.
The meeting is taking place ahead of upcoming Conferences of the Parties to the three major Rio environmental conventions covering biological diversity, climate change and combating desertification. Organisers say the forum is intended to facilitate the development of common approaches and strengthen the role of indigenous peoples in the international environmental agenda.
Krasnoyarsk Territory is home to eight small-numbered indigenous peoples of Russia. A range of government and community initiatives are being implemented in the region to preserve their languages, cultures and traditional ways of life while supporting sustainable local development.
The forum is also being held alongside the international exhibition “Treasures of the North: Masters and Artists of Russia 2026,” featuring indigenous handicrafts, traditional products, art and cultural practices.
Organisers have presented the forum as one of the major international events of Russia’s 2026 Year of the Unity of Peoples. The initiative seeks to highlight indigenous peoples not only as custodians of cultural heritage but also as active partners in sustainable development, biodiversity conservation and responses to climate change.
