Battle for Amazon: Indigenous peoples are the true guardians of the earth!

Battle for Amazon: Indigenous peoples are the true guardians of the earth!

In recent years, an exhibition in Paris that makes the voices of the indigenous peoples of Amazonia audible has come into particular focus. The show “Amazônia – Créations et futurs autochtones” at the Musée du Quai Branly Jacques Chirac presents a worldview that is not only shared by the indigenous communities, but also reflects the philosophy of South African Ubuntu: “I am because you are. I exist because everything exists.” This lays the basis for a deeper examination of the interdependence of all forms of life, as Le Temps shows.

But the challenges these peoples face are enormous. According to a United Nations report, indigenous peoples make up only about 6 percent of the world's population, but preserve over 80 percent of our planet's remaining biodiversity. Tragically, they receive less than 1 percent of international funding to combat climate change. This unequal distribution is compounded by a lack of representation and participation in key policy initiatives, as noted in the UN report. Hindou Oumarou Ibrahim, former president of the UN body on indigenous issues, emphasizes that these communities are not just passive victims, but active guardians of an important natural world.

The role of indigenous communities

Indigenous peoples are not only culturally rich, but also essential to the conservation and restoration of biodiversity. Their traditional knowledge of sustainable land use plays an essential role. Knowledge of rotational grazing and other sustainable practices keeps numerous ecosystems healthy and thriving, a study shows. But these positive approaches are threatened by what is referred to as “green resource sharing”. This applies not only to land acquisitions for biocarbon sequestration and renewable energy, but also to ecotourism - all of which often occurs without the consent of the affected communities. Over 50 percent of the minerals needed for green technology are also located on indigenous lands, increasing the risk of displacement and environmental degradation, as CIDSE explains in a policy brief.

The consequences of these drastic changes are particularly dire for the women of indigenous communities, who often bear the primary responsibility for food security and the preservation of traditions. Their role as knowledge keepers and pillars of resilience is crucial in developing local climate change adaptation strategies.

demands on politics

Fundamental steps are needed to protect the rights of indigenous peoples. The UN report recommends the creation of financial mechanisms placed directly in the hands of indigenous communities and recognition of their governance systems. This is not only a question of justice, but also a necessity for the preservation of biodiversity and thus the natural basis of life {Le Temps](https://www.letemps.ch/culture/au-musee-du-quai-branly-inventer-d-autres-recits-avec-les-peuples-autochtones-d-amazonie).

At a time when climate change and biodiversity loss are among the most pressing global challenges, the voice of indigenous peoples must be heard. It is important to promote dialogue everywhere and find solutions that include all stakeholders. This is the only way to counter the impending ecological catastrophe and shape a fair, shared future.