With the invaluable support of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), the National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) and the Nepal Federation of Indigenous Nationalities (NEFIN) successfully concluded the Final Internal Sharing Session on the ‘Kunming Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework on Indigenous Women Rights.’ This momentous event marked a significant milestone in the collective efforts to promote the rights and empowerment of Indigenous women in biodiversity conservation.
The joint position paper stands as a powerful testament to the unwavering commitment of NIWF and NEFIN in advocating for the inclusion and recognition of Indigenous women’s rights in biodiversity conservation. It encapsulates the aspirations and recommendations of Indigenous communities, further solidifying the significance of their role as environmental stewards.
Following the conclusion of the Final Internal Sharing Session, NIWF and NEFIN took a crucial step by formally handing over the position paper to the Convention on Biodiversity (CBD) Focal Point and NBSAP Lead Officer. This vital document serves as a call to action, urging policymakers and decision-makers to prioritize the rights and well-being of Indigenous women in the pursuit of sustainable biodiversity conservation.
The workshops held at various levels exemplify the importance of engaging stakeholders at all tiers of governance, ensuring that the concerns of Indigenous women are effectively conveyed and integrated into national strategies. By facilitating open dialogue and collaboration, NIWF and NEFIN have nurtured a truly participatory approach to environmental decision-making.
As the joint position paper makes its way into the hands of key authorities, NIWF and NEFIN remain steadfast in their dedication to supporting Indigenous women and their communities. Together with WWF, they continue to pave the way for a more equitable and inclusive future, where Indigenous women are recognized as crucial agents of change in preserving biodiversity and fostering sustainable development.
This landmark achievement serves as a beacon of hope, propelling Nepal towards a future where Indigenous women’s rights are protected, their voices are amplified, and their contributions to biodiversity conservation are celebrated and valued by society as a whole.
