Indigenous Peoples and local communities have a vital role to play in leading global efforts against the climate and nature loss crises. And yet, many are denied control over their land and resources, and face both threats and even violence. So we warmly welcome the US $1.7 billion pledge by five countries during COP26 to directly finance Indigenous Peoples and local communities in activities ranging from strengthening land tenure systems to building sustainable livelihoods, while urging signatories to include them more closely in decision-making about funds. Fran Price, our Global Forest Practice Leader, said: “The announcement by the governments of Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, the UK and the US is a much-needed recognition of the important role of Indigenous peoples and local communities in nature conservation. It must be followed through by their full and effective participation in policy and decision-making processes, including in national climate plans, and direct funding to organizations representing them.”
Beyond COP26, there has also been other important progress in our efforts to help people and nature thrive…