Highlighting the contributions of biodiversity to the wellbeing of Indigenous Peoples

In spite of its relevance, the multidimensional role that biodiversity plays in the wellbeing of Indigenous Peoples remains poorly understood. The absence of mechanisms for decision-makers to systematically consider local... [ view full abstract ]

In spite of its relevance, the multidimensional role that biodiversity plays in the wellbeing of Indigenous Peoples remains poorly understood. The absence of mechanisms for decision-makers to systematically consider local uses and values can result in interventions that convert or damage critical aspects of biodiversity vital to livelihoods and wellbeing.

This panel is a collaboration between the People in Nature initiative and the CEESP Theme on Wellbeing and Sustainable Livelihoods. Its purpose is to provide a forum to present results of the assessments underway as well as for scholars and other initiatives to share work on the multidimensional contributions of biodiversity to the wellbeing of Indigenous Peoples. This will be a space of discussion and dialogue in which we will examine the challenges, opportunities and trends in this area of research and practice. The session will begin with five presentations, followed by a discussion led by the panel, but open for contributions from the audience. 

The desired results of the session include a discussion about how better data collection, documentation and understanding of local contexts is relevant to policy formulation and development interventions and can result in tangible improvements for communities, conservation and livelihoods. 

We propose the following presentations:

1) Weaving political ecology and social wellbeing into the analysis of dried fish value chains in South and Southeast Asia

2) Local conceptions of wellbeing as pathways to effective conservation: The centrality of land and resource tenure and policy oversight as persistent injustice 

3) The realisation and distribution of resource-based benefits in the Kilombero Valley, Tanzania

4)  Using the species information system of IUCN for storing data of biodiversity's benefits for Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities: A first look

5)  Tracing biodiversity flows and the distribution of its benefits in the Colombian Pacific