Historically, many conservation organizations operated without a dedicated focus on human rights, lacking a systematic approach to ensure compliance with global human rights standards. This oversight led to practices that inadvertently disregarded fundamental human rights principles. Recognizing the pivotal role of communities and Indigenous rights in resource management, there has been a paradigm shift. Conservation organizations now acknowledge the need for a Human Rights Director, a role catalysing a community-centric approach and aligning initiatives with human rights principles. While this shift is in its early stages, it signifies a crucial step towards more responsible and sustainable conservation practices. The Human Rights Director, often underestimated, plays a vital role in navigating the delicate balance between biodiversity conservation and community well-being. This chapter explores the responsibilities, challenges, and impact of individuals in this position, emphasizing their role as stewards of ethical practices and advocates for social justice. Through a comprehensive review, case studies and best practices, the chapter sheds light on the intricate intersections of human rights and conservation. It underscores the indispensable contributions of Human Rights Directors and their teams to conscientious and sustainable conservation strategies. The discussion contributes to the broader discourse on the synergies between human rights advocacy and effective conservation, emphasizing the imperative for organizations to prioritize the creation of a Human Rights unit. This unit can empower teams to achieve socially responsible conservation outcomes, marking a transformative journey towards ethical conservation practices.
Human Rights Director; Conservation organizations; Indigenous rights; Ethical practices
Metolo Foyet and Patricia Mupeta-Muyamwa, ‘Human Rights-Based Conservation: The Integral Role of Human Rights Director in the Conservation Sector’ in Hasrat Arjjumend (ed.), New Vistas in Natural Resources Law (TGI Books/ The Grassroots Institute, Montreal/Vancouver, Canada, 2024), pp. 209-304, ISBN: 978-1-7778455-3-7. Doi: https://doi.org/10.33002/enrlaw-09/c6
Open Access. Copyright © 2024 the author(s), published by TGI Books/ The Grassroots Institute. This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution- Non Commercial - No Derivatives 4.0 International License. This work was first published as an article in the JELP journal of the same publisher with Doi: https://doi.org/10.33002/jelp030302. This Chapter is the revised 2nd version.
Edited by Dr. Hasrat Arjjumend
Open Access
The book "New Vistas in Natural Resources Law" is a pioneering exploration into the dynamic and multifaceted realm of environmental governance, cantered around crucial keywords such as Environmental Law, Natural Resources Management, Forest Laws, Biodiversity Laws, Indigenous Peoples, Conservation Policies, Rangeland Policies, Environmental Policy, Agrarian & Land Laws, and Mining Related Laws. Authored by experts at the intersection of law and environmental science, this comprehensive volume offers a panoramic view of the evolving legal landscape governing our planet's vital natural resources.
The book commences with an in-depth analysis of Forest Laws, establishing the foundational principles that guide the intricate relationship between human activity and the environment. It scrutinizes international conventions, regional agreements, and domestic legal frameworks, illustrating how these instruments shape the sustainable management of natural resources on a global scale. A focal point of the narrative is Natural Resources Management, exploring the complexities of balancing resource utilization with the imperative of conservation. The book investigates innovative strategies for managing diverse ecosystems, ranging from forests to rangelands, and delves into the legal frameworks that underpin sustainable practices. Forest Laws and Biodiversity Laws are dissected in separate chapters, providing a detailed examination of legal instruments designed to protect and preserve these critical components of our natural heritage. The book assesses the effectiveness of legislation in addressing deforestation, biodiversity loss, and the protection of endangered species.
The rights and contributions of Indigenous Peoples take centre stage as the book explores how legal frameworks intersect with traditional knowledge and land use practices. It critically examines the evolving legal landscape that recognizes and safeguards the rights of indigenous communities in the context of natural resources management. Conservation Policies and Rangeland Policies are explored as integral components of environmental governance, shedding light on the legal strategies employed to balance the needs of agriculture, conservation, and sustainable land use. Environmental Policy emerges as a cross-cutting theme, with the book examining the development, implementation, and impact of policies aimed at addressing pressing environmental challenges. It evaluates the role of legal frameworks in shaping policy decisions and fostering effective environmental management.
Agrarian & Land Laws are scrutinized for their role in shaping land use practices and mitigating conflicts arising from competing interests. The book investigates how legal instruments can balance the needs of agriculture, urban development, and conservation.
The legal dimensions of mining-related activities take centre stage, addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by extractive industries. The book explores the role of law in regulating mining practices, mitigating environmental impacts, and ensuring responsible resource extraction.
"New Vistas in Natural Resources Law" is a timely and authoritative work that not only captures the current state of natural resources law but also anticipates emerging challenges and opportunities. With its interdisciplinary approach, this book serves as an indispensable resource for legal scholars, policymakers, environmental scientists, and anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of the intricate interplay between law and the sustainable management of our planet's natural resources.
Arjjumend, H. (ed.) (2024). New Vistas in Natural Resources Law. Montreal/Vancouver, Canada: The Grassroots Institute, ISBN: 978-1-7778455-3-7. Doi: https://doi.org/10.33002/enrlaw-09
