Robert Nasi and Julia E. Fa, Director General, Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR), and Department of Natural Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, UK

Abstract

Indigenous Peoples are central to global efforts in biodiversity conservation and sustainable wildlife management, stewarding approximately 28% of the Earth’s land surface, much of which overlaps with biodiversity hotspots and ecologically intact regions. Their traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) and sustainable practices, developed over generations, provide critical insights into the management of species and ecosystems. These practices, such as rotational agriculture, sacred groves, and sustainable hunting, are complemented by modern conservation strategies, resulting in reduced deforestation, enhanced biodiversity, and improved climate regulation. Indigenous territories are indispensable for maintaining ecological integrity, supporting climate change mitigation, and sustaining vital ecosystem services.

However, Indigenous communities face escalating threats, including land encroachment, deforestation, climate change, and poorly planned development projects, all of which undermine their ability to manage and conserve these landscapes. Social and political marginalization, inadequate legal protections, and the erosion of TEK further exacerbate these challenges. This chapter explores the transformative role of Indigenous Peoples in conservation, showcasing case studies from around the world while addressing the barriers they face. It concludes with actionable strategies, including strengthening land rights, promoting inclusive governance, supporting TEK, and raising awareness of their contributions. Empowering Indigenous Peoples is essential for achieving global biodiversity goals, advancing social justice, and fostering a sustainable and equitable future.

1.             Introduction

Sound management of wildlife species is fundamental to sustaining their populations and habitats over time, particularly when considering the socioeconomic needs of human populations, as underscored in Decision 14/7 of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity. The sustainable use of wildlife is not only a conservation priority but also a socioeconomic necessity, with billions of people worldwide depending on wild species for food, medicine, energy, income, and cultural practices. As highlighted int the recent thematic assessment by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES, 2022), sustainable use is critical for maintaining the balance between human well-being and ecosystem health. It is integral to reversing the global decline in biodiversity and preserving the benefits that ecosystems provide to humanity.

Sustainable wildlife management involves practices that align the needs of wildlife populations with the requirements of human communities, ensuring that the use of species and ecosystems remains within ecologically sustainable limits. These practices are essential not only for maintaining biodiversity but also for supporting the livelihoods of millions, particularly in rural and forest-dependent communities. However, achieving this balance is becoming increasingly challenging due to threats such as overexploitation, habitat loss, and climate change.

Indigenous peoples play a pivotal role in addressing these challenges and advancing sustainable wildlife management. Their unique and longstanding relationship with nature is underpinned by extensive traditional knowledge systems, cultural practices, and a holistic understanding of ecosystems. Indigenous communities often view wildlife and natural resources as interconnected with their identity, well-being, and survival. This perspective fosters a stewardship ethic that promotes the sustainable use of resources while respecting ecological thresholds.

Moreover, Indigenous territories are among the most biodiverse landscapes on Earth, encompassing vital habitats for wildlife and ecosystems. Recent studies emphasize that biodiversity is often highest in areas managed by Indigenous Peoples, further demonstrating their effectiveness as custodians of nature. Yet, their contributions to wildlife management are frequently undervalued, and they face numerous challenges, including land insecurity, marginalization, and the impacts of global environmental changes.

This chapter explores the critical importance of Indigenous Peoples in sustainable wildlife management, shedding light on their contributions to conservation, the unique challenges they face, and the opportunities to enhance their involvement. By integrating Indigenous Knowledge and practices with modern conservation strategies, it is possible to create more inclusive and effective approaches to biodiversity conservation. Indigenous Peoples are not merely stakeholders in conservation efforts; they are indispensable partners whose active engagement is essential for sustaining wildlife populations, preserving habitats, and ensuring the well-being of human communities.

In recognising and supporting the role of Indigenous Peoples, this chapter aims to underline the need for equitable partnerships, respect for traditional knowledge, and the empowerment of local communities. Sustainable wildlife management is not just a conservation goal; it is a shared responsibility that requires bridging diverse worldviews, fostering collaboration, and promoting justice for those who have safeguarded the natural world for generations.

2.             Indigenous Peoples: numbers and distribution

Indigenous Peoples (Box 1) are communities that have historical ties to specific regions and maintain distinct cultural practices and traditions. They are often characterised by their unique languages, social structures, and spiritual beliefs that are closely linked to their natural environments. Around the world, there are between 370 and 500 million people who consider themselves Indigenous, in more than 90 countries. Indigenous Peoples comprise approximately 6% of the global population, equating to an estimated 476 million individuals, and are distributed across more than 90 countries on every continent except Antarctica (United Nations, 2021). Representing an extraordinary diversity of cultures, they encompass over 5,000 distinct cultural groups and speak approximately 4,000 of the world’s 7,000 languages, making them key stewards of global linguistic diversity (UNESCO, 2019). Many of these languages are endangered, further underscoring the cultural and historical significance of Indigenous Peoples in maintaining the world’s intangible heritage. Their territories, which collectively cover about 28% of the world’s land surface, are not only culturally rich but also critically important for ecological stability, as these areas overlap with some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet (Garnett et al., 2018).

Box 1: What is Indigeneity?

Indigeneity is not defined by a single universal framework; rather, it encompasses a combination of historical, cultural, and self-identification criteria. Indigenous Peoples are typically descendants of the original inhabitants of a region, maintaining historical continuity with pre-colonial or pre-settler societies. Their identities are deeply tied to specific territories, which form the foundation of their livelihoods, cultural practices, and spiritual beliefs. This unique relationship with the land and its resources is a defining characteristic of indigeneity, reflecting a holistic worldview that connects people, nature, and culture.

A critical aspect of indigeneity is the distinct cultural identity of Indigenous Peoples. They often preserve languages, knowledge systems, governance structures, and traditions that differ from those of the dominant society. These cultural elements are intertwined with their deep-rooted connection to the environment, emphasizing sustainability and respect for ecological balance. Moreover, Indigenous Peoples frequently occupy marginalised or non-dominant positions within broader political, social, and economic structures, which further shapes their experiences and challenges.

Self-identification is a cornerstone of defining indigeneity. Many Indigenous groups assert their identity based on shared ancestry, cultural traditions, and historical ties to their lands. International frameworks such as the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Convention 169 and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) prioritize self-identification while acknowledging the diversity of Indigenous contexts. These frameworks avoid rigid definitions, emphasizing the importance of respecting the unique circumstances and perspectives of Indigenous communities.

Indigeneity is also defined by governance and autonomy. Indigenous Peoples often maintain traditional systems of governance, laws, and practices that coexist alongside or outside national frameworks. These governance structures are integral to their cultural resilience and ability to sustain their territories. However, defining indigeneity can be complex, as it varies across regions and contexts. Political, legal, and historical factors often influence whether groups are formally recognised as Indigenous. Consequently, many institutions and policymakers emphasize self-identification and context-specific approaches to ensure inclusivity and respect for Indigenous rights.

Indigenous Peoples manage or have rights over some of the most sparsely populated and ecologically intact regions of the world (Fig. 1). Their management institutions have proven remarkably resilient and sustainable, shaping human-landscape relationships that support conservation values. Even in areas where Indigenous Peoples are regaining land rights, the conservation of significant portions of the planet depends on their governance and actions. Despite their contributions, Indigenous communities often reside in remote or marginalised areas, ranging from the Amazon Basin and the Arctic to the savannahs of Africa and the rainforests of Southeast Asia. Their widespread distribution and intimate relationship with these ecologically significant regions make them indispensable partners in global conservation efforts and highlight the need for greater recognition and protection of their rights and knowledge systems.

3.              Indigenous People lands: critical for biodiversity conservation

Indigenous Peoples manage approximately 28% of the world’s land surface, including some of the planet’s most biodiverse and ecologically critical regions (Garnett et al., 2018). These territories often overlap with biodiversity hotspots, underscoring their essential role in conservation. Research shows that lands under Indigenous management exhibit lower deforestation rates, higher biodiversity, and greater ecological resilience compared to other protected areas (O’Bryan et al., 2021; Fa et al., 2020). Indigenous territories provide vital ecosystems for climate regulation, carbon storage, and water cycling, making their stewardship indispensable for global environmental health. Due to their lifeways, traditional knowledge systems, and strong connection to place, approximately 92% of Indigenous Peoples’ lands (35.4 million km²) remain in good to moderate ecological condition, encompassing 39% of the planet’s most intact landscapes.

The biodiversity value of Indigenous Peoples’ lands is particularly evident in their overlap with key species distribution ranges. For instance, 10% of the global distribution range of 60% of all IUCN-assessed terrestrial mammals occurs within indigenous territories (O’Bryan et al., 2021). Similarly, these lands contain 30% of global primate distribution, 37% of the world’s natural lands with low human disturbance, and 35% of the world’s intact forest landscapes (Estrada et al., 2022; Garnett et al., 2018; Fa et al., 2020). The Amazon Rainforest provides a striking example of this overlap, where Indigenous Peoples manage extensive tracts of land that harbour 10% of the world’s known species. These biodiverse regions also serve as critical carbon sinks, playing a central role in mitigating climate change (Watson et al., 2018). In addition to protecting biodiversity, Indigenous Peoples’ territories sustain ecological integrity and support global climate regulation.

Indigenous communities in Africa further demonstrate the critical role of traditional knowledge in conservation. In the Congo Basin, the Baka and Aka people have preserved forest ecosystems for generations through sustainable hunting, gathering, and forest management practices. These practices not only support biodiversity but also maintain the health of the forests, which are vital for global climate regulation. In Namibia, the Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) program offers an example of Indigenous and community-led conservation that has empowered local communities to manage wildlife and natural resources sustainably. Covering approximately 20% of Namibia’s land area, this program benefits over 230,000 rural people, creating economic opportunities while supporting biodiversity. Through initiatives like tourism and resource-based enterprises, the program has led to the recovery of key species such as black rhinos and elephants, demonstrating the compatibility of conservation and development (MET Namibia, 2022).

In Southeast Asia, Indigenous forest management practices have been equally successful in preserving biodiversity and preventing deforestation. The Dayak people of Borneo employ traditional agroforestry systems that integrate tree crops, annual crops, and livestock. These systems maintain forest cover and biodiversity while supporting livelihoods, demonstrating how traditional ecological knowledge can enhance resilience to climate change and other external pressures. Similarly, in the Amazon, the Kayapo people have effectively managed their territories to protect vast areas of rainforest from deforestation and degradation. Their traditional practices, combined with modern conservation strategies, have resulted in lower deforestation rates and higher biodiversity compared to surrounding areas.

These examples highlight the transformative impact of Indigenous Peoples’ management on biodiversity conservation. Their stewardship, traditional knowledge systems, and governance practices help sustain some of the most intact and biodiverse ecosystems on Earth. Supporting Indigenous-led conservation initiatives, ensuring land rights, and integrating traditional knowledge with contemporary conservation frameworks are essential for achieving global biodiversity and climate goals. By fostering equitable partnerships and recognizing Indigenous Peoples as indispensable partners, conservation efforts can achieve sustainable outcomes that benefit both people and nature.

4.             The importance of wildlife for Indigenous Peoples

For Indigenous Peoples across the globe, wildlife is far more than a natural resource; it is an integral part of their cultural, spiritual, and economic identities. Their deep connection with wildlife is rooted in centuries of coexistence, reflected in traditional practices, knowledge systems, and worldviews that emphasize balance and respect for nature. Wildlife plays a crucial role in the livelihoods, diets, health, and ceremonies of Indigenous communities, underscoring its significance in their daily lives and cultural continuity.

In many regions, wildlife provides a primary source of sustenance. Indigenous communities often depend on wild animals for food security, with bushmeat, fish, and other wild species forming a cornerstone of their diets. For example, in the Congo Basin, Indigenous Peoples such as the Baka and Aka rely on hunting and fishing as key components of their subsistence practices. Similarly, in the Arctic, the Inuit depend on marine mammals and fish for nutrition and cultural practices, which are vital for their survival in harsh environments. Beyond food, wildlife also provides essential materials such as furs, hides, and bones for clothing, tools, and shelter, supporting Indigenous Peoples’ self-sufficiency and resilience.

Wildlife also holds profound spiritual and cultural significance for Indigenous communities. Many Indigenous belief systems regard animals as sacred beings or spiritual guides, symbolizing strength, wisdom, or protection. These connections are expressed through storytelling, rituals, totems, and art that celebrate the intrinsic value of wildlife. The Māori of New Zealand consider certain bird species, like the kererū, as taonga (treasures) that are deeply tied to their cultural identity and heritage. Similarly, in North America, many Indigenous nations view animals such as bison, eagles, and wolves as sacred and central to their cosmology and traditional ceremonies.

Economically, wildlife supports Indigenous Peoples through sustainable livelihoods, including eco-tourism, artisanal crafts, and community-based resource management programs. Namibia’s CBNRM program is an example of how sustainable wildlife management can create economic opportunities for Indigenous communities while promoting conservation. This model has empowered local people to sustainably manage wildlife resources, leading to improved livelihoods and the recovery of key species. Indigenous-led conservation initiatives such as these demonstrate the compatibility of wildlife management with both cultural preservation and economic development.

Moreover, wildlife conservation is inseparable from Indigenous Peoples’ traditional knowledge and practices. Their ecological wisdom – developed through generations of close interaction with their environments – offers valuable insights into sustainable resource management and biodiversity conservation. The Dayak of Borneo use traditional agroforestry systems that integrate wildlife habitats with agricultural productivity, preserving forest cover while maintaining biodiversity. Indigenous knowledge systems also contribute to monitoring wildlife populations and managing ecosystems, complementing scientific conservation approaches.

Despite their critical role as stewards of wildlife, Indigenous Peoples often face challenges such as land dispossession, exploitation, and the imposition of conservation policies that do not respect their rights or traditions. These challenges not only threaten their cultural and economic survival but also undermine global biodiversity goals. Recognizing and supporting the role of wildlife in Indigenous Peoples’ lives is essential for advancing both social justice and environmental sustainability. By ensuring their active participation in wildlife management and respecting their rights to traditional territories, conservation efforts can align with Indigenous aspirations and enhance the resilience of both communities and ecosystems.

Wildlife is not just a resource for Indigenous Peoples – it is a cornerstone of their cultural identity, livelihoods, and spiritual well-being. Recognising the importance of wildlife for Indigenous communities and integrating their knowledge and priorities into conservation frameworks is vital for fostering equitable and effective biodiversity conservation worldwide.

5.             Importance of Traditional Ecological Knowledge in Conserving Indigenous Lands

Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) embodies generations of observation, interaction, and adaptation to specific ecosystems, offering invaluable insights for conservation science. Unlike conventional approaches that often rely solely on modern scientific methodologies, TEK provides a holistic understanding of the intricate relationships between species, ecosystems, and human activity. It encompasses knowledge of species behaviour, ecological interactions, and sustainable harvesting techniques, which are critical for the effective management of biodiversity-rich regions. By integrating TEK with modern science, conservation outcomes can be significantly enhanced, creating strategies that are both ecologically sound and culturally appropriate.

TEK is fundamental to the effective conservation of the 28% of the world’s land surface managed by Indigenous Peoples. Indigenous knowledge systems have evolved over millennia, providing practical and spiritual guidelines for resource use that maintain ecological balance. Seasonal hunting calendars, sacred groves, and cultural taboos protecting certain species are examples of practices rooted in TEK that align with principles of sustainability. For instance, many Indigenous communities have traditionally restricted hunting or harvesting during breeding seasons to ensure the regeneration of species. These culturally embedded practices contribute to the resilience of ecosystems and the preservation of biodiversity.

As detailed in Table 1, case studies from across the globe highlight the diverse ways Indigenous Peoples integrate TEK into sustainable wildlife management. The Kayapo people of the Amazon combine traditional practices such as rotational agriculture and sacred groves with modern tools like satellite imagery and drones to monitor and protect their lands. Similarly, the Martu people in Australia use “cool burning,” a traditional fire management technique, to prevent destructive wildfires and promote biodiversity. These examples demonstrate how Indigenous practices, when supported by modern strategies, result in effective conservation outcomes such as reduced deforestation, enhanced biodiversity, and improved climate regulation.

In addition, the Dayak people of Borneo exemplify the use of TEK in agroforestry systems that maintain forest cover while providing livelihoods through sustainable crop production. By participating in certification programs like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and accessing global markets for their sustainably produced goods, the Dayak have successfully merged traditional and modern approaches to ensure both environmental and economic sustainability. Similarly, the Inuit of Canada combine their traditional knowledge of wildlife behaviour and seasonal hunting practices with co-management agreements and scientific monitoring, ensuring sustainable use of Arctic resources while contributing to climate change adaptation.

In Australia, the Martu people show how traditional practices can address contemporary environmental challenges. Their fire management method, known as “cool burning,” involves setting small, controlled fires during the cooler months to clear underbrush and create natural firebreaks. These fires reduce the risk of large-scale wildfires while promoting the regeneration of native plant species and habitats. Studies have shown that landscapes managed through Martu practices exhibit higher biodiversity and lower carbon emissions compared to areas managed solely through modern fire suppression techniques. TEK can complement scientific knowledge to deliver measurable conservation benefits.

TEK is particularly valuable in managing the interconnectedness of species and ecosystems. Indigenous Peoples’ understanding of keystone species, for instance, often reflects their ecological importance and cultural significance. In the Congo Basin, Indigenous communities such as the Baka and Aka recognize the role of large mammals like elephants in seed dispersal and forest regeneration. Their sustainable hunting practices ensure that populations of these critical species remain viable, maintaining the ecological functions that support the broader forest ecosystem.

However, the erosion of TEK due to colonisation, globalisation, and the marginalization of Indigenous Peoples poses a significant threat to the conservation of biodiversity. Colonizers and post-colonial states often disregarded or suppressed Indigenous knowledge systems, leading to the loss of languages, practices, and resources that have been stewarded for centuries. For instance, policies that enforce centralized conservation models, such as the creation of protected areas without Indigenous participation, often disrupt traditional practices and sever communities from their ancestral lands. This not only undermines biodiversity conservation but also threatens the cultural survival of Indigenous Peoples

Recognising and revitalising TEK is therefore essential for conserving Indigenous lands and the biodiversity they support. Conservation initiatives must prioritize the inclusion of Indigenous Peoples as equal partners, ensuring that their knowledge, practices, and governance systems are respected and integrated into management plans. Frameworks such as the Akwé: Kon Guidelines and the Whakatane Mechanism provide pathways for fostering meaningful collaboration, while examples like Namibia’s CBNRM program demonstrate how Indigenous-led governance can lead to both ecological and socioeconomic benefits.

Integrating TEK into global conservation efforts requires more than acknowledging its value – it demands active efforts to protect the cultural and political rights of Indigenous Peoples. This includes securing land tenure, supporting the revitalisation of Indigenous languages and practices, and ensuring free, prior, and informed consent in all conservation activities. Only by aligning conservation strategies with the knowledge and priorities of Indigenous communities can we achieve sustainable outcomes for the biodiversity-rich landscapes they have managed for generations. TEK is not merely a complement to scientific knowledge; it is an essential foundation for the stewardship of some of the world’s most critical ecosystems.

By leveraging TEK, conservation can move beyond preservationist models that isolate humans from nature to embrace approaches that recognize humans as active participants in ecological systems. Indigenous Peoples, through their TEK, offer a blueprint for coexistence with nature that is rooted in sustainability, reciprocity, and respect. Their knowledge is not only a testament to the resilience of their cultures but also a critical tool for addressing the unprecedented environmental challenges of the 21st century.

4.             Threats facing Indigenous communities and their lands

Indigenous communities worldwide face mounting threats that jeopardize their cultural survival, livelihoods, and the biodiversity-rich landscapes they have managed for generations. These threats are multifaceted, stemming from external pressures such as land encroachment, deforestation, climate change, and large-scale development projects. In the Amazon, for example, illegal logging, mining, and agricultural expansion significantly impact Indigenous territories, leading to habitat destruction and the loss of critical biodiversity. The Yanomami people in Brazil provide a stark example of these pressures, as their lands have been increasingly targeted by illegal gold mining operations. These activities contaminate water sources with mercury, degrade forest ecosystems, and introduce diseases, posing severe health risks and undermining the community’s ability to maintain traditional livelihoods.

Climate change amplifies these threats by altering ecosystems, intensifying extreme weather events, and disrupting the balance of natural resources. For Indigenous Peoples who rely heavily on their local environments for food, water, and cultural practices, these changes are particularly devastating. In the Arctic, for instance, the Inuit face the rapid melting of sea ice, which not only threatens polar ecosystems but also disrupts traditional hunting practices that are central to their cultural identity. Similarly, in the Pacific Islands, rising sea levels threaten to displace Indigenous communities, eroding their connection to ancestral lands and cultural heritage.

Social and political challenges exacerbate these environmental pressures. Indigenous communities are often marginalized and underrepresented in decision-making processes at national and international levels, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and exclusion. Inadequate legal protections and weak enforcement of existing rights further compound these vulnerabilities, making it easier for industries to encroach upon Indigenous territories. This lack of recognition and support undermines Indigenous Peoples’ ability to sustainably manage natural resources, which not only affects their well-being but also has global implications for biodiversity and climate regulation.

Development projects present another significant threat to Indigenous lands. Large-scale infrastructure initiatives, including dams, roads, and extractive industries, frequently disregard Indigenous Peoples’ rights and environmental considerations. The study by Kennedy et al. (2019) showed how development projects often lead to land dispossession. In North America, as an example, the extent and long-term effects of land dispossession and forced migration on Indigenous peoples, has increased exposure to climate change risks and diminished economic opportunities. habitat destruction, and cultural erosion. Hydropower dam projects in Southeast Asia have flooded Indigenous territories, forcing communities to relocate and disrupting their access to traditional resources. Similarly, road construction in the Amazon has facilitated illegal deforestation and the invasion of Indigenous lands by loggers and miners, leading to irreversible ecological and social damage.

More recently, Kennedy et al. (2023) have highlighted the alarming threats posed by industrial development to Indigenous Peoples’ lands worldwide. Nearly 60% of these territories in 64 countries facing significant risk of degradation or conversion. The study identified 37 countries where Indigenous lands are particularly vulnerable, often due to weak legal protections, limited representation in decision-making processes, and insufficient access to financial and technical resources. These vulnerabilities exacerbate the likelihood of land conversion, undermining both the cultural integrity of Indigenous communities and the ecological health of these vital landscapes. However, the findings also underscore the importance of supporting Indigenous governance and stewardship, demonstrating that empowering Indigenous communities with secure rights, representation, and resources can substantially mitigate the risks of land conversion and contribute to sustainable land management.

The erosion of traditional lands and cultural practices profoundly affects Indigenous Peoples’ well-being and ability to manage resources sustainably. Traditional ecological knowledge, which has been passed down through generations, risks being lost as communities are displaced or disconnected from their ancestral territories. This loss not only diminishes cultural diversity but also weakens global conservation efforts, as Indigenous Peoples play a critical role in maintaining biodiversity and ecological integrity.

Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts from governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and the international community. Policies must prioritize securing land tenure and providing robust legal protections for Indigenous Peoples’ territories. Governments should implement and enforce FPIC protocols, ensuring that Indigenous voices are integral to the planning and execution of development projects. Furthermore, inclusive conservation strategies must recognize and support the rights, knowledge, and governance systems of Indigenous Peoples. Collaborative initiatives, such as co-management agreements and community-based conservation programs, can help balance development needs with the protection of Indigenous rights and biodiversity.

As frontline stewards of some of the planet’s most vital ecosystems, Indigenous communities play a pivotal role in preserving biodiversity, mitigating climate change, and ensuring ecological resilience. Their knowledge, practices, and governance systems are integral to maintaining the health of these landscapes, which provide essential benefits not only for local populations but for the global community as well. Recognising and protecting Indigenous Peoples’ contributions is key to fostering a more equitable and sustainable future for all.

However, Indigenous Peoples and their territories face escalating threats from land encroachment, deforestation, climate change, and poorly planned development projects, which jeopardize their ability to manage and conserve these landscapes. Social and political marginalization, inadequate legal protections, and the erosion of traditional knowledge further compound these challenges. Addressing these threats is not only critical for the survival and well-being of Indigenous Peoples but also for achieving global biodiversity and climate goals. Protecting the rights, lands, and knowledge systems of Indigenous communities is a global imperative that requires urgent, sustained action.

Safeguarding the rights and lands of Indigenous Peoples is both a moral imperative and a critical step toward achieving global conservation and sustainability goals. This demands a holistic and equitable approach, emphasising partnerships that respect their autonomy, governance, and cultural heritage. Below are key actions that can help ensure Indigenous Peoples are empowered to continue their vital contributions to biodiversity conservation:

·               Strengthening Legal Protections: Ensuring that Indigenous land rights are recognized and protected under national and international law is essential. Clear and enforceable legal frameworks must secure Indigenous Peoples’ tenure over their ancestral lands, preventing encroachment and exploitation by external actors. Legal protections should be aligned with the principles of free, prior, and informed consent (FPIC) to ensure that Indigenous communities have full authority over decisions affecting their territories.

·               Promoting Inclusive Governance: Indigenous communities must be actively involved in decision-making processes related to conservation and natural resource management. Co-management frameworks and inclusive governance structures can foster collaboration between Indigenous Peoples, governments, and conservation organizations. These approaches not only enhance the legitimacy and effectiveness of conservation initiatives but also ensure that Indigenous knowledge and priorities are fully integrated into management strategies.

·               Supporting Traditional Knowledge Systems: The integration of traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) with scientific research and conservation practices offers a powerful pathway for achieving sustainable outcomes. Efforts should focus on documenting, preserving, and revitalising traditional knowledge systems, while also ensuring that Indigenous Peoples maintain control over how their knowledge is used. Collaborative conservation projects that respect and incorporate TEK can create innovative solutions to pressing environmental challenges.

·               Providing Financial and Technical Assistance: Indigenous-led conservation initiatives require adequate resources and capacity to thrive. Financial support, capacity-building programs, and access to technical expertise are critical for enabling Indigenous communities to manage their lands sustainably. Investments should prioritize community-led projects that align with Indigenous values and aspirations, such as eco-tourism, sustainable agriculture, and biodiversity monitoring programs.

·               Raising Awareness: Public education and advocacy are essential for fostering greater understanding of the importance of Indigenous Peoples in biodiversity conservation and sustainable wildlife management. Policymakers, conservation organizations, and the global public must recognize that Indigenous-led approaches are not only effective but also ethically imperative. Highlighting success stories and amplifying Indigenous voices in international forums can build momentum for stronger support and collaboration.

As we look to the future, the integration of Indigenous-led approaches into global conservation frameworks holds the promise of transformative change. By supporting Indigenous Peoples, we safeguard not only the landscapes they have managed for generations but also the ecological systems on which all life depends. Their stewardship is a beacon of hope for the planet and a powerful reminder of the value of working in harmony with nature.

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