Ways for Indigenous Peoples groups to advance adaptation concerns and solutions through international fora
This paper focuses on the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and its Kyoto Protocol. It also addresses the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and the UNESCO World Heritage Convention. For each agreement (in the case of WIPO, organisation), the paper provides: a summary overview; a brief description of the operational structure; a section on climate change, adaptation and Indigenous Peoples in the context of the agreement or organisation; a section on the formal rules for observer status; a section on avenues for input; and a section on strategic considerations. The paper highlights opportunities for engagement by Indigenous Peoples, and also challenges, noting that preparations for the Copenhagen Climate Summit in December 2009 will involve intense preparations.