The 15th Conference of Parties (COP15) to the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) has recently brought attention to the crucial role that Indigenous Peoples play in conserving biodiversity. At the conference, a group representing these cultures urged that the upcoming Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) respect, support, and promote the rights of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPCL). This sentiment was echoed by members of the International Indigenous Forum on Biodiversity (IIFB).
Key Points Highlighted by Indigenous People at COP15
As some of Earth’s most effective biodiversity guardians, Indigenous People and Local Communities have emphasised the necessity of their rights being recognised and protected. They advocated for a human rights-based approach in the Post-2020 GBF, particularly focusing on Indigenous and collective rights and gender equity. Expectations include the incorporation of traditional knowledge, practices, and technologies, all while adhering to principles of free, prior and informed consent.
The Role of Indigenous People in Biodiversity Conservation
Indigenous cultures have long played an essential part in preserving biodiversity through various practices. These include the Conservation of Natural Flora, Application of Traditional Knowledge, and Conservation of Sacred Groves. Concepts such as considering plants’ habitats as sacred and the application of community knowledge about medicinal plants contribute significantly to conservation efforts.
Challenges Encountered by Indigenous People
Indigenous communities face several difficulties. Conflict often arises when attempts are made to isolate them from their natural habitats for conservation purposes, especially after the designation of World Heritage Sites by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Problems also include lax implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA) and Development vs Conservation issues. Often, land claims by Indigenous Peoples are challenging when areas are designated for dams, mining, railway lines, and other infrastructural projects.
Overview of the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework
Building upon the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011-2020, the Post-2020 GBF is an ambitious new initiative supported by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Its mission includes halting the extinction and decline of biodiversity, enhancing nature’s services to humans, ensuring equitable benefits from the use of genetic resources, and closing implementation gaps. It also sets out 21 action-oriented targets for urgent action by 2030.
About the International Indigenous Forum on Biodiversity
The International Indigenous Forum on Biodiversity (IIFB) is a coalition of indigenous government representatives, non-government organizations, scholars, and activists. Formed during the III Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CoP III) in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in November 1996, the IIFB aims to coordinate indigenous strategies at important international environmental meetings.
Recommended Approach Moving Forward
Preserving biodiversity is closely linked with acknowledging and respecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples. This recognition is needed along with declaring natural habitats as World Heritage Sites. Implementing the Forest Rights Act effectively is crucial to build trust between government agencies and Indigenous Peoples. Further, Indigenous People’s traditional knowledge should be recognised for its valuable contribution to biodiversity conservation.
