Indigenous Peoples Forum

The first-ever Indigenous Peoples Forum at COP16, taking place on December 7, 2024, spotlighted the invaluable contributions of Indigenous Peoples to land conservation and sustainable resource management. Indigenous Peoples, known for their unique traditions and centuries-long practices in agro-ecology and regenerative techniques, play a pivotal role in preserving ecosystems and ensuring agricultural productivity. Bringing together civil society leaders, youth activists, land practitioners and negotiators, the forum amplified Indigenous perspectives, integrate ancestral knowledge into global strategies and foster collaborations to address desertification and land degradation.
The Forum focused on critical themes to enhance the integration of Indigenous perspectives into the implementation of the Convention:
- Framework for engagement: Discussions will center on developing mechanisms to formalize Indigenous Peoples' participation in UNCCD strategies, integrating their traditional knowledge into national and international policies and fostering collaboration with other stakeholders.
- Restoration of rangelands: Will address the complexities of rangeland degradation, including overgrazing, climate change and land conversion, exploring strategies that harmonize environmental health, economic interests and community well-being.
By creating a platform where Indigenous voices are heard, their knowledge is recognized and their contributions are valued in efforts to combat land degradation and desertification. the Forum underscored their role as essential partners in achieving the objectives of UNCCD. Through strengthened collaboration and the integration of traditional practices into global strategies, COP16 sought to empower Indigenous Peoples to lead the vital work in land restoration and sustainable development.
