Indigenous Peoples Climate Finance: GCF Advisory Group Strengthens Ties
By: Abudu Olalekan
It was a quiet week in Songdo, South Korea, but the conversations happening inside the Green Climate Fund’s headquarters carried the weight of the world’s future. From December 16 to 19, 2025, a vital meeting took place. This wasn’t just another bureaucratic gathering. It was the seventh meeting of the Indigenous Peoples Advisory Group, known simply as IPAG-7.
The room was full of anticipation. For years, the GCF has worked to bridge the gap between massive global funding and the communities that need it most. This meeting was about closing that gap. It was about making sure that Indigenous voices aren’t just heard, but that they lead the way.
Setting the Stage
The proceedings kicked off with a warm welcome from Eleni Kyrou, the Head of the Office of Sustainability and Inclusion. Her remarks set a tone of collaboration. But the real energy shifted when the group elected its new Chair. Helen Biangalen Magata stepped into the role, bringing a fresh perspective to the table.
The agenda was ambitious. The goal? To move from policy to practice. The group focused on two main pillars: strengthening institutional habits and, more importantly, enhancing access to climate finance for Indigenous Peoples.
It sounds straightforward. It isn’t. The bureaucracy of global finance is a maze. The IPAG is trying to draw a map.
The Core Discussions
Over four intense days, the conversation turned to the “how.” How do we make 2026 a breakthrough year?
The group identified three critical areas. First, they tackled the concept of “direct access.” Usually, money filters through layers of intermediaries. The IPAG wants to change that. They are building a framework that allows Indigenous communities to access GCF funds directly. It’s about autonomy and efficiency.
Second, they looked ahead to April 2026. The IPAG and the GCF Secretariat agreed to co-organize a major event: the GCF Global Conference with Indigenous Peoples. This isn’t just a side event. It’s a partnership. They are joining forces to ensure this conference drives real action, not just talk.
Third, they did some housekeeping. The existing Operational Guidelines for the Indigenous Peoples Policy were written years ago. Since then, the world has learned a lot. The group agreed it was time for an update. They need to bake those hard-earned lessons into the rules.
A Seat at the Table
One of the subtle but powerful wins of IPAG-7 was the agreement on participation. The group welcomed the inclusion of its members in GCF Regional Dialogues. They also requested a spot at the 2026 Global Planning Meeting.
Why does this matter? Because decisions made in those planning sessions ripple across the globe. If Indigenous leaders aren’t in the room, the policies drafted might miss the mark. This is about ensuring the people on the ground are part of the strategy from day one.
Celebrating Wins, Demanding More
There was a moment of pride during the meeting. The IPAG looked back at the Indigenous Peoples Policy and commended its positive impact. It has changed how the GCF operates. To highlight this, the group committed to issuing a brief. It will showcase the achievements so far.
However, the mood shifted quickly to realism. The group emphasized that the work isn’t done. They called for continued institutional support. This isn’t a request for handouts; it’s a demand for structural integration.
They specifically mentioned Locally Led Climate Action (LLCA) and REDD+. These are massive GCF programs. The IPAG wants to make sure Indigenous Peoples are woven into these fabric, not just attached as an afterthought. They are pushing for dedicated modalities—specific pathways—that make it easier for Indigenous organizations to get funding.
The Forest and the Framework
A significant portion of the discussion centered on the environment. The GCF has a new LLCA framework. It’s a big deal. The IPAG welcomed it but asked for more. They invited the Secretariat to develop specific guidance on how to engage Indigenous organizations within this new framework.
At the same time, they drew a hard line on forests. The REDD+ program and the Tropical Forest Forever Facility are huge initiatives. The IPAG made it clear: compliance is non-negotiable. Every single activity must respect the Indigenous Peoples Policy. Furthermore, they insisted on the recognition of non-carbon benefits.
Carbon credits are the currency of climate change. But the IPAG reminded everyone that forests are more than carbon sinks. They are homes, cultures, and histories. The value of these lands goes beyond a metric ton of CO2.
Looking Ahead
As the meeting closed, the atmosphere was one of gratitude. The IPAG thanked the GCF leadership and Secretariat. It was a genuine appreciation for the collaboration. The relationship is evolving. It’s becoming less about “advising” and more about “co-creating.”
The outcomes of IPAG-7 are clear. They have charted a path forward. It’s a path that deepens the partnership between the GCF and Indigenous Peoples. It recognizes that these communities hold vital knowledge. Their leadership is essential to the core of climate finance delivery.
The clock is now ticking. The next meeting is scheduled for May 2026. That’s just a few months away. By then, the Global Conference planning will be in full swing, and the guidelines will be in draft. The momentum is building.
For the Indigenous leaders in Songdo, the message was simple. Progress is happening. The ties are getting closer. And the fight for climate justice just got a little bit stronger.
