Pastoralists to seek recognition as stewards of biodiversity during CBD

The Conference of Parties (COP 9) of the UN Convention on Biological Diversity will held in Bonn, Germany, from 19 to 23 May 2008.

Article 10c of the Convention commits signatory countries to protect and encourage customary use of biological resources in accordance with traditional cultural practices that are compatible with conservation and sustainable use requirements.

Many traditional pastoralist communities would qualify for support from their governments. Alas, in reality, they are generally ignored or scorned upon by policy makers. During the COP 9, the parties will discuss progress in the implementation of the convention.

Three members of LPPS will use this opportunity to lobby for an official acknowledgment of the role of pastoralists in conserving various aspects of biodiversity, including those of domestic animals, certain wild plants and animals, as well as landscapes.

LPPS and its German partner, the League for Pastoral Peoples and Endogenous Livestock Development, have gained allies among German shepherds who often get paid to graze their sheep on certain land, so maintaining the biodiversity there.

Another strong supporter is the LIFE Network for community-based conservation of animal genetic resources.

View the report on LPPS’s interaction with European pastoralists in September 2007.