IPLCs have been the custodians of wildlife and ecosystems for centuries. However, this has too often been downplayed by governments, private corporations, and big international conservation NGOs that continuously force IPLCs off their land. This has resulted to a scenario where IPLCs are neither involved with the management of parks and other conserved areas, nor having access to the resources they previously relied on. Despite this, positive relations between biodiversity and IPLCs’ livelihoods have existed over the long term, and a picture of a harmonious co-existence has emerged in many areas, despite growing challenges (ILRI 2006).

There is consensus on the need to acknowledge, respect, recognize and support the rights and identity of customary governance authorities and resource holders, including women, youth and vulnerable people, and the systems and customary laws they use to sustain resources, and to promote legitimacy, transparency and accountability in decision-making.

Additionally, there is the need for fair and equitable sharing of costs and benefits accruing from protected and conserved areas. Inclusive governance must also include effective grievance redress mechanisms, and meaningful, effective, inter-generational and gender-responsive participation of IPLCs in all processes that relate to their lands and land-based resources.