Indigenous Leaders Unite in Abu Dhabi for Historic Conservation Summit

Abu Dhabi witnessed a historic gathering as Indigenous leaders from across the globe convened for the World Summit of Indigenous Peoples and Nature, coinciding with the IUCN World Conservation Congress. For the first time in the 77-year history of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), all Indigenous member organisations met in person to set shared priorities for protecting nature.

The summit brought together nearly 200 Indigenous representatives, governments, international organisations, and donors to reinforce the role of Indigenous Peoples in shaping global biodiversity and climate agendas. These communities are recognized as custodians of more than 80% of the planet’s biodiversity, and the event highlighted how their traditional knowledge, governance systems, and cultural practices are vital to conservation efforts.

Hosted by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and convened by IUCN, the summit offered a unique platform to align centuries-old Indigenous knowledge with modern scientific approaches. Discussions focused on global frameworks, including the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the Paris Agreement, aiming to turn dialogue into practical action for the planet’s future.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel

The summit also marked the inauguration of the Indigenous Peoples Pavilion at the IUCN Congress exhibition, a symbolic and functional space where culture, science, and conservation intersect. Leaders shared insights from diverse ecosystems, from the Amazon rainforest and Arctic tundra to the Pacific islands and Arabian deserts, illustrating common approaches to sustainable resource management and ecosystem stewardship.

The three-day event included a Knowledge Exchange in the Abu Dhabi desert, where Indigenous leaders and hosts engaged in storytelling, cultural dialogue, and presentations on coexistence with nature. These insights are expected to shape ongoing collaborations between Indigenous communities and global conservation partners, influencing IUCN’s 2026-2029 programme and broader biodiversity and climate initiatives.

The summit stands as a milestone in global conservation, emphasizing the irreplaceable role of Indigenous leadership in safeguarding the planet and ensuring that future policies honor their knowledge, culture, and heritage.