June 2, 2025 (Brazzaville, Republic of Congo) – The First Congress of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities for the Forest Basins concluded with a unified message from Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IP&LCs), affirming their central role in protecting the Earth’s ecosystems and the need for greater recognition and direct access to climate finance.

In 2024, the tropics lost 6.7 million hectares of primary rainforest — the highest loss in over two decades — driven largely by massive fires, with agriculture, logging, mining and other natural disturbances also contributing. Nearly 20% of intact tropical forests fall within areas of active and potential oil and gas exploration, adding to mounting threats.

Despite managing over half of the world’s remaining intact forests, IP&LCs receive a fraction of climate finance and are routinely excluded from key policies. Many communities still lack legal recognition or protection of their land rights, even as industrial and agricultural pressures on their territories continue to grow.

Following is a statement by WANJIRA MATHAI, MANAGING DIRECTOR, AFRICA AND GLOBAL PARTNERSHIPS:

“We must recognize the role of Indigenous Peoples and local communities because they hold or manage 54% of the world's remaining intact forests. Protecting the world’s forests hinges on investing directly in their well-being and forest economic opportunities. 

 

“This is why the movement for community-led forest economies inspires me — it's transforming how we think about forests, not just as resources to protect, but as vital engines for sustainable economic growth. Forest conservation and thriving local economies are not at odds — they are interdependent and mutually reinforcing.

 

“The outcome of this Congress asserts that Indigenous Peoples are not merely stakeholders but rightsholders and leaders. Their collective call to action invites governments, donors, and global institutions to stand in true partnership, grounded in respect, equity, and shared responsibility, to regenerate the planet for current and future generations.

 

“This is a landmark moment. We are proud to see Indigenous Peoples and local communities bringing this statement to COP30 in Belém, Brazil — widely known as 'The People’s COP' — highlighting their vital role in addressing climate change. Their efforts must be supported with specific and meaningful financial commitments and recognized in COP30 decisions on forest protection."