Kaski, Pokhara : The fourth Asia Regional Conference on “Indigenous Rights, Biodiversity, and Climate Change: Indigenous Knowledge and the People of Asia” concluded with impactful outcomes after four days of collaborative discussions in Pokhara, Kaski, from October 1-4. Organized by Asia Indigenous Peoples’ Pact (AIPP), the conference brought together 67 participants from 13 countries, including Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Myanmar, Taiwan, Canada, Denmark, and Nepal.

The primary goal was to strengthen advocacy for indigenous rights, biodiversity conservation, and climate action. Together, participants developed a comprehensive declaration, urging policymakers to prioritize a rights-based approach in national strategies, such as the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC), and the National Adaptation Plan (NAP).

Key recommendations included ensuring the recognition and protection of indigenous lands, territories, and resources, emphasizing the necessity for Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC). Moreover, the conference underscored the importance of inclusive participation especially for indigenous women, youth, and Indigenous Peoples with disabilities in the ongoing review and updating of these important policy documents.