Climate change, forest conservation and indigenous people’s rights |
Apr 2008
|
According to the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP), eighty per cent of the world’s biodiversity is found in rainforests. Most of these rainforests are the traditional land and territories of Indigenous Peoples, which they either reside in or have previously used or occupied. Indigenous Peoples have nurtured and maintained their lands and territories which have in turn protected large areas in which these resources are located. The role of Indigenous Peoples is very important in any discussion related to their environment and resources.
It has been recognized that the lack of full and effective participation of Indigenous Peoples in the development of any policies, programmes and projects that impact directly on their communities tends to lead to the failure of such projects as well as a loss of biodiversity. In addition, these policies and programmes often contribute to conflicts where Indigenous Peoples are too often the victims.
It is vital that Indigenous Peoples have full and effective participation together with Member Parties to participate also in the UNFCCC meetings and deliberations including developing recommendations on climate change and its mitigation and adaptation mechanisms. Policies and processes that will have direct effect on indigenous lands, territories and resources need the effective involvement of Indigenous Peoples in the planning and implementation of initiatives to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation at all levels.
|
