In this session, the importance of creating space for indigenous knowledge emerged as a key theme for future global public health opportunities. Decolonising health and development were also highlighted. Colonialism has negatively impacted indigenous peoples, leading to forced dependency and lack of self-determination. This has implications for addressing climate and planetary challenges.

Building genuine relationships, working in collaboration and empowering locally led sustainable interventions with indigenous peoples is crucial for working together on climate change and health. This includes providing opportunities for indigenous scholars and researchers to share their knowledge and not solely relying on Western methodologies to generate evidence-based information on this issue.