Event
Culture-Nature: Joint Programme of Work on links between biological and cultural diversity
The Joint Programme of Work on the Links between Biological and Cultural Diversity (JPoW) is a coordination mechanism that supports the implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and raises global awareness of the linkages between cultural and biological diversity. It is overseen jointly by UNESCO, the CBD, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). It currently emphasizes the importance of Indigenous participation, recognition of their customary laws, and their role in conservation efforts.
Agenda
This side event aims to:
- Highlight innovative strategies and successful practices at the intersection of biological and cultural diversity.
- Advocate for a rights-based, inclusive, and transdisciplinary conservation approach to achieve the objectives of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
- Facilitate the exchange of experiences and insights across various knowledge systems, focusing on Indigenous and local knowledge.
It underlines the essential role of Indigenous Peoples in biodiversity conservation and the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, focusing on the interconnections between cultural and biological diversity. The synthesis of panel discussions, insights, and recommendations can inform the UNPFII's advocacy and policy-making processes, reinforcing the need for a rights-based, inclusive, and transdisciplinary approach in global conservation efforts. This, in turn, aligns with the UNPFII's mission to address issues related to Indigenous peoples' economic and social development, culture, the environment, education, health, and human rights.
The 75-minute session will include a brief presentation by the panellists (composed of Indigenous Peoples and representatives of Member States, UN agencies, the Secretariat of the CBD, and IUCN), an interactive dialogue, a Q&A with the audience and a closing summary.
About the Joint Programme of Work on the Links between Biological and Cultural Diversity
The Joint Programme of Work on the Links between Biological and Cultural Diversity (JPoW) was first established during the 10th Conference of the Parties of the CBD (COP 10) in 2010. The Parties reaffirmed their commitment to the JPoW during their 15th meeting (COP 15). It currently aims to develop a common strategy to halt the decline of biological and cultural diversity, operationalize relevant indicators within the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, and create communication and educational materials to raise awareness, in all spheres of society and sectors, about the links between biological, cultural and linguistic diversity.
This renewed programme of work its institutional arrangements pertaining to Article 8(j) and related provisions focuses on Indigenous Peoples and local communities. The objective is to create a more comprehensive and forward-looking programme, aligning with internationally agreed Sustainable Development Goals and agreements. It emphasizes the importance of Indigenous participation, recognition of their customary laws, and their role in conservation efforts. The decision outlines, among others, activities related to sustainable use/practices, conservation, equitable benefit-sharing, preservation of traditional knowledge and culture, and the protection of Indigenous Peoples’ rights.
More information
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