WWF warmly welcomes the Brazzaville Declaration, released at the conclusion of the  First World Congress of Indigenous Peoples in the Republic of Congo. Indigenous Peoples from across the major tropical forest regions of the world adopted a declaration in that affirms their rights, leadership, and deep connection to nature.  
 

The Brazzaville Declaration outlines a bold vision to defend ancestral lands, safeguard biodiversity, and ensure Indigenous voices are heard and incorporated at every level of environmental governance. 

The declaration emphasizes the crucial role of Indigenous Peoples in managing and preserving the rich biodiversity found in the world’s three largest forest basins. It calls for full recognition of land rights, inclusion in decision-making processes, access to sustainable funding, and respect for traditional knowledge systems. It also urges governments and development partners to provide full support to Indigenous Peoples' rights and access to land. 
 

“This declaration is a profound expression of unity, determination, and leadership by Indigenous Peoples in defending their rights, their territories, and the well-being of our planet,” says Martin Kabaluapa, WWF’s Regional Director for the Congo Basin. “WWF continues to be inspired by Indigenous Peoples’ courage, wisdom, and resolve. We fully support the vision laid out in the Brazzaville Declaration and applaud the collective commitment to securing rights, safeguarding ancestral lands, and preserving the natural heritage of generations to come.” 
 

The voices of Indigenous Peoples are essential to address the interconnected crises of biodiversity loss, climate change, and environmental injustice. Their deep connection to nature and their traditional knowledge is invaluable in shaping a sustainable future for all. 
 

“WWF will continue to work alongside Indigenous Peoples to appropriately support them in their journey to ensure respect of their rights and roles in conservation action. We are committed to supporting their leadership, and to identifying opportunities for stronger collaboration on conservation knowledge and practice, policy advocacy and resource mobilization for conservation and sustainable development”, added Elaine Geyer-Allely, Senior Director, Inclusive Conservation & Governance at WWF International.