GENEVA – The UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) today issued its findings on Finland, Honduras, India and Kuwait after reviewing the four States Parties in its latest session.
The findings contain the Committee’s main concerns and recommendations on the implementation of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, as well as positive aspects. Key highlights include:
Finland
The Committee remained concerned that self-determination and participation in decision-making are not yet fully guaranteed for the Sámi, and that their traditional lands and resources are not adequately protected, particularly from wind power and mining projects carried out without sufficient free, prior and informed consent. It also noted that Sámi traditional livelihoods, including reindeer husbandry, fishing and hunting, remain under increasing pressure from competing land use, restrictions and climate change. The Committee called on Finland to ensure that decisions and projects affecting the Sámi are not approved without their free, prior and informed consent, and to strengthen protection of their lands and traditional livelihoods. It also recommended improving access to Sámi-language education, healthcare and social services. ..👇