Inclusivity is the key to protecting biodiversity
Not everyone is equally affected by the biodiversity crisis. Some communities feel the effects even more strongly due to their social, economic or geographical circumstances and their close relationship with their natural environment. In solidarity with such communities, our solutions must align with their values. It is crucial to take inclusion and solidarity into account in negotiating an ambitious global text at COP15.
The protection and restoration of nature must involve respect for human and Indigenous rights, and the free and informed consent of peoples.
International
- Already vulnerable populations at risk: The areas of the world most affected by biodiversity loss also contain higher concentrations of Indigenous peoples and the majority of the world’s poorest communities1.
- Indigenous land: At least 25% of the world’s land is traditionally held, occupied and managed by Indigenous peoples. Nature generally declines less quickly in these areas than in others2.
- Gender equality: Because they are overrepresented in the informal economy and subsistence activities, women around the world are more likely to be adversely affected by biodiversity loss3.
- Greenwashing and “false solutions”: The emphasis placed on ecosystem services and market instruments tends to obscure nature’s intrinsic value and exclude the communities that rely on nature for spiritual or cultural reasons.
Quebec and Canada
- Community inclusion and participation: solutions to protect biodiversity do not sufficiently facilitate and support the participation of local and marginalized communities, women, and Indigenous peoples.
- Indigenous conservation projects: many conservation projects on Indigenous land do not receive sufficient government recognition or support.
- Recognition of Indigenous governance and knowledge: Current decision-making and legislative processes do not give sufficient weight to Indigenous knowledge and governance.
Solutions
Major changes are needed to support the inclusion and participation of communities in efforts to protect biodiversity. This is particularly true of communities that are affected the most. In Quebec and Canada, respect for Indigenous worldviews, governance structures, culture and knowledge systems must be at the heart of conservation efforts. Land managed by Indigenous peoples generally contains more natural environments, with many conservation initiatives underway. Let’s support Indigenous leadership!
- Muteshekau Shipu project to protect the Magpie River
- Gardien du Nitassinan Innu program
- Ya’nienhonhndeh: Huron-Wendat protected area project
© Luc Vincent-Savard
Our demands
- Support conservation initiatives and governance for Indigenous peoples and local communities
- Establish social dialogue mechanisms to ensure a fair and equitable transition