For decades, “fortress conservation” has displaced millions of Indigenous people in the name of environmental protection. From Yosemite to the Congo Basin, this practice has left a trail of abuse and cultural devastation.
Now, a UN framework launched on December 13, 2024, seeks to end this injustice.
These new principles require Indigenous consent and co-management, finally recognizing their unmatched role in preserving biodiversity.
The Dark History of Fortress Conservation
The practice began in the United States by creating Yosemite and Yellowstone national parks, displacing the Miwok and Shoshone peoples. Some 26 indigenous groups were ultimately removed from Yellowstone alone, often through military force. (ref)
This model spread globally during colonial times, with European powers implementing similar practices across Africa and Asia.
Modern conservation organizations have perpetuated this approach, resulting in millions of displaced individuals who have suffered physical harm and cultural destruction. The practice continues today, with armed eco-guards funded by international donors reportedly committing serious human rights violations in places like the Congo Basin. (ref)
Indigenous People as Environmental Stewards
Research demonstrates that Indigenous peoples are more effective than governments at preventing deforestation and protecting biodiversity. (ref) Their territories currently house over 35% of the world’s intact forests.
Studies consistently show that protecting Indigenous rights leads to better conservation outcomes and more cost-effective environmental protection.
The New Framework
The UN Environment Programme’s new principles, supported by over 70 organizations, mandate respect for Indigenous peoples’ rights and require their free, prior, and informed consent for conservation initiatives. (ref)
This framework represents a significant shift from traditional fortress conservation approaches, emphasizing co-management and Indigenous participation in protected areas.
Success Stories Emerging
Recent positive developments include the Bear’s Ears National Monument in the United States, where an inter-tribal coalition of five Indigenous nations partners with federal agencies to manage the park. (ref)
This collaborative approach creates a new precedent for conservation efforts that respect Indigenous rights while protecting biodiversity.
The Path Forward
The new principles will establish regular conferences bringing conservation organizations, funders, and Indigenous peoples together to address conservation and human rights issues jointly.
This approach aims to dismantle the racist misconception that Indigenous people cannot be trusted to manage their own lands while ensuring both environmental protection and human rights are preserved.
Economic Impact & Sustainable Development
Traditional fortress conservation models have often ignored the economic potential of Indigenous-managed lands.
Indigenous peoples often develop innovative eco-tourism initiatives and sustainable harvesting practices when they maintain control of their territories.
The Amazon Basin provides a compelling example. Indigenous-managed areas show 27% lower deforestation rates than other protected areas while still supporting local economies.
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Nancy Maffia
Nancy received a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.
