Kalash Nation Represented Globally at COP31, with Lok Rahmat’s Significant Participation

Chitral (Fathullah): Lok Rahmat, a prominent social activist and community representative from the Kalash nation, took part in the United Nations’ 31st global environmental conference (COP31), held in Antalya, Türkiye, highlighting the issues and position of Pakistan’s indigenous peoples, particularly the Kalash community, on the global stage. As an officially invited knowledge holder for the Local Communities and Indigenous Peoples Platform (LCIPP) under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Lok Rahmat participated in various official conference activities from November 9 to 13, 2026. Representatives of indigenous peoples and holders of traditional knowledge from around the world presented their experiences and proposals on climate change and environmental protection at the conference. Addressing the conference’s Seventh Generation High-Level Roundtable, Lok Rahmat said indigenous peoples should not be viewed only as populations affected by climate change; their centuries-old traditional knowledge and experience, and their role in protecting the natural environment, should also be incorporated into global environmental policymaking. He called for the effective inclusion of local communities in global environmental decisions and for their rights to be protected. He also took part in various side events and discussions at the Indigenous Peoples’ Pavilion, where issues including indigenous peoples’ rights, environmental justice, protection of cultural heritage, and promotion of traditional knowledge were discussed. Lok Rahmat also represented Pakistan in the activities of the Asia Regional Caucus. According to the information provided, he was the only representative from Pakistan at these activities, where he informed participants about the challenges faced by Pakistan’s indigenous communities, including the Kalash community, and their perspectives. Lok Rahmat is the chief executive of Ashpata Group of Companies, head of the Kalash Peoples Development Network (KPDN), and chairperson of the Kalasha Dur Cultural Center. He has long been active in advocating for the rights of the Kalash nation, protecting its cultural identity, advancing community development, and promoting environmental protection. The Kalash people, who live in Chitral’s valleys of Bumburet, Rumbur, and Birir, are considered one of Pakistan’s prominent indigenous communities because of their distinctive language, culture, traditions, and close connection with the natural environment. Climate change, increasing pressure on natural resources, and the protection of cultural heritage are issues of particular importance to this community. Lok Rahmat’s participation in the conference is being described as an important step in highlighting the concerns of the Kalash nation and Pakistan’s indigenous communities at global environmental forums. A video clip of his address at the Seventh Generation High-Level Roundtable is available on the United Nations’ official webcast, while efforts to obtain a recording of the full session are ongoing.

Source: https://chitralexpress.com/updates/2026/11/15/107048/