Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities Secure Key Role in Global Conservation Following COP16 Decision
Statement
The Bezos Earth Fund welcomes the approval of a new program of work under Article 8(j) at COP16, marking a significant advancement for Indigenous peoples and local communities. This decision formalizes their leadership within the framework of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), ensuring their knowledge systems, traditions, and governance play a central role in achieving global biodiversity targets. Notably, COP16 recognized Afro-descendant communities as custodians of biodiversity, further advancing inclusive conservation practices. Dr. Cristián Samper, Managing Director and Leader for Nature Solutions, Bezos Earth Fund, said the following:
“This is a pivotal step forward for environmental justice and for the Indigenous peoples, local communities, and Afro-descendant communities whose knowledge and stewardship are essential to achieving biodiversity goals. Formalizing these voices within the CBD process strengthens conservation efforts, including the 30x30 target, while also fostering greater equity in environmental governance. We are proud to support institutional frameworks that secure this progress.
The establishment of a new work program for IPLCs through 2030, along with the creation of a permanent subsidiary body within the CBD, ensures that IPLC knowledge and governance systems will remain integral to biodiversity policy and practice for years to come. The new program accompanies IPLC participation in national biodiversity strategies (NBSAPs), embedding their expertise into policy-making and implementation – a decision we welcome and celebrate. As part of our commitment to environmental justice, the Bezos Earth Fund will continue to advocate for direct funding streams to IPLCs, and empowering them to lead land titling, restoration, and biodiversity mapping initiatives.
Additionally, we applaud the establishment of a permanent subsidiary body on IPLCs within the CBD framework. This dedicated entity ensures IPLC knowledge and governance systems are continually represented, elevating their contributions within biodiversity policy and practice. Such a lasting structure is a critical advancement toward achieving long-term environmental justice and inclusive global conservation.
Building on our involvement in the $1.7 billion pledge at COP26, the Earth Fund remains committed to expanding tenure rights and supporting mechanisms that provide more direct funding for IPLC-led conservation efforts. This outcome reaffirms that conservation succeeds when Indigenous, Afro-descendant, and local communities are at the forefront.”