The International Committee on Indigenous Peoples (ICIPR) has made the statement to be sent to the UN. There, the situation of indigenous peoples in Russia is highlighted. The country where recently a large number of indigenous organizations, including ICIPR, were formally classified as extremists.
The statement calls on the UN to take all necessary measures to protect indigenous peoples and their rights. Over 120 different organizations worldwide have so far signed and the Sámi Council has also received a call to do so.
But the Sami Council has chosen to stay outside.
“Affects the Sami”
The fact that the Sami Council does not sign, however, should not be interpreted as that they are against the statement, according to president Áslat Holmberg.
– I think that even in this case, I will present in my own words how we look at the matter from a Sami perspective, he says.
He views the development in the country with concern.
– We have been following developments on the Russian side for a long time and this is worrying. I see that Russia is criminalizing those who work for human rights and it is important that we take sides on this issue because it is very serious and affects the Sami, says Áslat Holmberg.
Had to break contact
The Sami Council – which represents the Sami in both Sweden, Norway, Finland and Russia – was forced to formally break contact with its associations on the Russian side after the start of the Ukraine war over two years ago.
That because of various sanctions and restrictions. And in addition, the financiers of the Sami Council demanded that cooperation with bodies on the Russian side be suspended. That forced them into the break in communication that is still ongoing. Contact with the Sami in Russia is currently limited.