The South–South Learning Exchange on Indigenous Peoples' Rights, held in Kathmandu, Nepal, from 20–22 April 2026, brought together Indigenous leaders, women, youth, human rights defenders, lawyers, community representatives, and experts from Nepal, India, Panama, and Costa Rica.
The exchange focused on strengthening Indigenous Peoples' rights in the context of renewable energy and development projects affecting Indigenous lands. Participants discussed Indigenous self-determination, self-governance, Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC), climate justice, Indigenous women's rights, business and human rights, and a just transition, while sharing practical experiences on community-led advocacy, strategic litigation, legal reforms, and corporate accountability.
The program enhanced participants' understanding of international human rights standards, fostered cross-regional solidarity, and concluded with a shared commitment to advance collective advocacy to ensure that development and energy transition initiatives fully respect Indigenous Peoples' rights, including the right to Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC).
The exchange was organized by LAHURNIP in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples Rights International (IPRI) and the Business & Human Rights Centre (BHRC).
