Silence at COP17: A Video of Solidarity and the Voices Missing from the Table
Updated: Oct 26
Hands holding chains, covered mouths and a silent procession: this video records a COP17 action in solidarity with Indigenous and environmental human rights defenders, including Daria Egereva and Natalia Leongardt. The participants’ message was clear: protecting biodiversity must also mean protecting the people who defend their lands, communities and rights.
Silence at the protest — and voices missing from the negotiating table
At COP17, participants chose silence to draw attention to people who are being silenced. For Daria Egereva and Natalia Leongardt, absence from the conference is not a choice. They remain in detention after years of helping Indigenous Peoples participate in international processes.Against this background, the dispute over the legitimacy of representation takes on particular urgency. Official Russian voices challenge the mandate of independent Indigenous advocates. But how free can representation be when people able to express independent views are behind bars, while others face the risk of persecution?
The presence of an official delegation does not, by itself, ensure a diversity of voices. Indigenous Peoples’ right to participate means being able to choose their own representatives, including those who hold independent views. International institutions must consider both the statements of those present and the reasons why people who previously contributed to their work are absent.
The video of the silent protest makes that absence visible. It reminds us that full and effective Indigenous participation cannot be separated from the freedom and safety of the people who have helped make it possible.
Daria and Natalia must be Free!
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