English - Natural Justice

Main RecommendationsTo recognize and respect Indigenous peoples’ and local communities’ rights to protect theintegrity of their ICCAs, the following recommendations are made to governments,intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, research institutions, and donors:a. Recommendations for Overall Legal Reform at the National LevelRespect and uphold human (including collective or community) rights.Improve implementation of legislation by harmonizing laws and undertakinginstitutional reform.Improve access to justice and uphold the rule of law.Support legal empowerment and capacity building initiatives.b. Recommendations for Legislating for Integrated Socio-ecological Systemsand Implementing Laws in Conformity with Human Rights StandardsRecognize and respect customary and collective land rights.Reform environmental and natural resource laws to enhance rights and removedirect threats to ICCAs.Reform policies and laws to effectively protect and promote traditional knowledge,cultural heritage and customary practices.Ensure protected areas comply with international rights, principles and standards.c. Recommendations for Appropriately Respecting and Supporting ICCAsRespect the rights of Indigenous peoples and local communities to selfdetermination.Create an enabling environment for self-designation and self-definition of ICCAs.Recognize the full diversity of Indigenous peoples and local communities and respectthe social, cultural and spiritual values of ICCAs.Recognize customary laws and decision-making processes.d. Recommendations for Non-legal Recognition and SupportProvide appropriate administrative and programmatic recognition and supportthrough national and sub-national strategies and action plans, incentive schemes,programmes, and research and funding policies related to the environment,development, and social welfare.Undertake locally appropriate research about aspects such as the conservationbenefits and values of ICCAs, threats to ICCAs, and community-determined plansand priorities for maintaining the integrity of ICCAs.Increase public awareness and social recognition of Indigenous peoples’ and localcommunities’ rights and ICCAs.Institute easily accessible and transparent funding mechanisms.Provide opportunities for training and capacity-enhancement, including culturallysensitive inputs and facilitation.Facilitate access to culturally and ecologically appropriate facilities and services forwellbeing and welfare (for example, water, sanitation, health, education, andinfrastructure).