On 8 August 2026, the European Union, in a statement by High Representative Josep Borrell on behalf of the EU, reaffirmed its commitment to the rights of Indigenous Peoples, with a particular focus on the role of Indigenous midwives in safeguarding life and well-being. The statement, issued ahead of the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples on 9 August, underscores the EU's support for the full implementation of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and international human rights law, and highlights the persistent discrimination and barriers Indigenous Peoples face, especially in healthcare.
The EU's statement draws attention to the disproportionate barriers Indigenous Peoples encounter in accessing quality healthcare, which lead to poorer health outcomes. It notes that Indigenous women and girls are particularly affected, facing multiple and intersecting forms of discrimination that limit their access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities, while increasing their exposure to violence, including sexual and gender-based violence. The statement references the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women's General Recommendation No. 39, adopted in 2022, which identified these patterns of discrimination. The EU also emphasizes the vital role of Indigenous women as leaders and custodians of their cultures, languages, and knowledge, and their contribution to promoting the right to health, including sexual and reproductive health.
The EU reiterates its commitment to the Beijing Platform for Action and the Programme of Action of the International Conference on Population and Development, and their review outcomes, and reaffirms its commitment to sexual and reproductive health and rights. The statement stresses the right of every individual to have full control over and decide freely on matters related to their sexuality and sexual and reproductive health, free from discrimination, coercion, and violence.
This year's International Day is dedicated to the role of Indigenous midwives, recognizing their work in safeguarding life and the well-being of those in their care. The EU's statement is a declaration of support and does not introduce new policy measures or funding. It is a reaffirmation of existing commitments, with no specific implementation steps or financial allocations announced.
The statement impacts Indigenous Peoples within and beyond the EU's borders, particularly Indigenous women and girls, who may see increased attention to their healthcare needs and rights. It also signals to EU member states and international partners the EU's continued prioritization of Indigenous rights, potentially influencing future policy discussions and funding decisions. However, as a declaratory statement, its direct impact is limited, and it does not impose new obligations on EU institutions or member states.