On 28 January 2026, ClimLaw: Graz hosted a round table discussion entitled “The Role of Indigenous Peoples in the Climate Regime” at the University of Graz. The event brought together scholars and students interested in climate law and international environmental governance.
The keynote speaker, Prof. Nicolas Alberto Ojeda Zavala, delivered an insightful presentation on the evolving role of Indigenous peoples within the international climate framework. Prof. Ojeda holds a PhD in Law from the University of Edinburgh and an LL.M. from the University of Vienna. He is currently a Professor of Law at the Universidad Autónoma de Chile and serves as Director of the Chile Centre of the International Ocean Institute.
In his presentation, Prof. Ojeda examined the participation and influence of Indigenous peoples in climate adaptation and mitigation efforts, particularly in light of the Paris Agreement. He further discussed recent advisory opinions issued by international courts and their implications for the recognition of Indigenous rights within the global climate regime. His analysis highlighted the increasing legal and political significance of Indigenous knowledge systems and the need for stronger integration of Indigenous perspectives into international climate governance.
The round table provided an engaging platform for discussion, allowing participants to reflect on the intersection of climate law, human rights, and Indigenous self-determination. The event underscored the importance of inclusive approaches to climate policy and reinforced the Research Centre’s commitment to advancing critical dialogue on contemporary climate law issues.