A Training Manual for Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities on the Convention on Biological Diversity

(First published in 2020)

Indigenous peoples and local communities (IPLCs) live in areas that overlap with zones high in biodiversity. These high biodiversity areas often are also rich in cultural diversity, as evidenced by the diversification of languages spoken in these areas. Considering this overlap, decisions concerning biodiversity may impact their lives. Strong knowledge about the international and national regulation and policy on biodiversity is important to enhance the full and effective participation of IPLCs in implementing the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) at all levels.

The IPBES Global Assessment Report on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services emphasizes that “At least a quarter of the global land area is traditionally owned, managed, used or occupied by indigenous peoples. These areas include approximately 35 per cent of the area that is formally protected and approximately 35 per cent of all remaining terrestrial areas with very low intervention”.

Read the full manual here in English

Lea el manual completo aqui en español

This manual aims to:

• Increase understanding of the Convention on Biological Diversity;
• Increase awareness and knowledge regarding the role of indicators related to traditional knowledge: linguistic diversity, land tenure, traditional occupations, and participation;
• Familiarize the learners with the national processes for implementation of the CBD, particularly through the National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAP);
• Increase awareness of the monitoring and review progress, particularly National Reports (Art 26 of the CBD);
• Increase understanding of the role and contributions of IPLCs and their knowledge, customary practices, and initiatives to implement the Convention;
• Explore the potential of community-based monitoring and information systems as a tool for monitoring;
• Increase awareness about the Local Biodiversity Outlooks publications and the collective actions of IPLCs in biodiversity conservation;
• Deepen understanding on how to engage in the implementation of the CBD and the post-2020 global biodiversity framework