Sat Nov 02 05:46:59 UTC 2024: ## Indigenous Communities Gain Powerful Voice in Global Nature Conservation
**Cali, Colombia** – A historic breakthrough for Indigenous communities was achieved at the UN COP16 summit on nature in Cali, Colombia, on Friday. Countries unanimously approved the creation of a permanent consultative body, empowering Indigenous peoples to have a say in UN decisions on nature conservation.
This body, which will also extend to local communities, signifies a major recognition of the critical role Indigenous communities play in safeguarding nature globally. Their traditional knowledge and practices will now be directly incorporated into conservation efforts, contributing to the implementation of the 2022 Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, aimed at halting the decline of nature by 2030.
The summit also saw the adoption of a measure recognizing the vital contribution of people of African descent to nature conservation. This initiative will provide these communities with easier access to resources for biodiversity projects and participation in global environmental discussions.
The creation of these consultative bodies marks a significant step towards ensuring inclusivity and collaboration in global efforts to protect the natural world.
First Piper 