In a significant effort to promote the involvement of Indigenous communities in biodiversity conservation, the Nepal Federation of Indigenous Nationalities (NEFIN) organized a transformative “Workshop on जैविक विविधता महासन्धी (Convention on Biological Diversity-CBD) अन्तरगतको NBSAP लगायतका विषयहरुबारे आदिवासी जनजातिको सुझाव संकलन” on June 3, 2023. The workshop had a special focus on the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan Process (NBSAP), aiming to include valuable insights and recommendations for Indigenous communities.
Representing the National Indigenous Women Forum (NIWF) at the discussion were Treasurer Sushila Gole and Program Officer Saraswati Sherpa. Their participation in the workshop showcased the commitment of NIWF to promoting the rights and perspectives of Indigenous women and girls in biodiversity conservation.
NEFIN’s initiative to host the workshop was a commendable effort to amplify Indigenous voices and ensure their meaningful engagement in shaping Nepal’s biodiversity conservation strategies. The NBSAP process is a crucial framework that outlines the country’s approach to safeguarding biodiversity and promoting sustainable development.
The presence of NIWF’s representatives at the workshop highlighted the collaborative efforts being made by different organizations to ensure that the NBSAP reflects the unique cultural and ecological wisdom of Indigenous communities.
NIWF expressed heartfelt appreciation to NEFIN for extending the invitation to participate in the NBSAP discussion. This gesture underscored the importance of fostering partnerships and inclusivity in environmental decision-making processes.
As the workshop outcomes are incorporated into Nepal’s National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, it is hoped that the perspectives of Indigenous communities, particularly women and girls, will play a pivotal role in shaping effective and culturally sensitive biodiversity conservation initiatives. By acknowledging the vital role of Indigenous knowledge and practices, Nepal can lead the way toward a sustainable and harmonious coexistence with nature.
