The International Committee of Indigenous Peoples of Russia (ICIPR) issues this statement in response to remarks made by a representative of the Russian Federation at the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues:
“Do not listen to those who left Russia long ago… they are outsiders.”
ICIPR emphasizes: exile is not a loss of legitimacy. Exile — and we are proud of it. It enables independent Indigenous representatives to speak without pressure, document violations, and engage with international human rights mechanisms.
The statement outlines systemic concerns regarding Indigenous representation, including the role of RAIPON, whose institutional dependency raises serious questions about its ability to act independently. It also highlights the intensifying repression of Indigenous civil society, including arrests of activists, shrinking civic space, and increasing pressure on human rights defenders.
The document further addresses the impact of industrial expansion on Indigenous lands and underscores inconsistencies with international standards, including the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
ICIPR calls on international institutions to ensure that independent Indigenous voices are heard and to critically assess the nature of representation presented on their behalf.
The full statement is attached.