At the COP16 UN Biodiversity Summit held in Cali, Colombia, representatives reached a consensus on the creation of a subsidiary body specifically dedicated to Indigenous issues.
This decision marks a significant move towards better representation and inclusion of Indigenous voices in discussions about biodiversity and environmental management.
The establishment of this body is intended to ensure that Indigenous perspectives are actively integrated into decisions that affect their communities and the ecosystems they depend on.

The delegates emphasized the importance of honoring Indigenous knowledge systems and practices which have been developed over centuries and are crucial for sustainable resource management.
Leaders at the summit recognized that Indigenous peoples play a vital role in conservation efforts, often acting as stewards of biodiversity in their ancestral lands.
By granting Indigenous groups a formal platform, the conference aims to elevate their concerns and enhance collaboration between Indigenous communities and national governments.

The initiative reflects a growing acknowledgment within global environmental policies about the need for inclusive frameworks that respect and utilize Indigenous rights and expertise.
As discussions about biodiversity continue to gain urgency due to climate change and habitat loss, this step signifies a commitment to integrating diverse perspectives in combating these global challenges.