Despite the Indonesian government’s plan to recognize 1.4 million hectares of new indigenous forest by 2029, many experts believe this is not nearly enough. Farah Sofa, a program officer at the Ford Foundation, points out a huge gap between the areas designated as indigenous territories and those formally recognized by the government. Out of 30.1 million hectares mapped by the Ancestral Domain Registration Agency, only 345,257 hectares have received formal acknowledgment. This disparity puts valuable, carbon-rich lands at risk of exploitation and deforestation.
Since 2001, Indonesia has lost about 32 million hectares of tree cover, releasing over 23 gigatons of carbon emissions. Farah argues that the failure to secure indigenous land rights is a significant factor driving this loss.
Research shows that deforestation rates drop considerably in areas where indigenous peoples have formal land rights. “Indigenous knowledge and practices are vital in protecting these forests,” Farah explains. For instance, the Dayak Iban communities in Kalimantan illustrate this point well. While industrial logging devastates much of their environment, areas managed by the Dayak Iban remain largely untouched. Their long-standing community-based approaches not only preserve biodiversity but also protect crucial carbon-storing peatlands.
According to Farah, granting legal title to indigenous lands does more than uphold human rights; it also serves as a key strategy for climate action. For years, these communities have been denied authority over their ancestral territories, a situation that undermines Indonesia’s climate goals.
While the recent announcement ahead of COP30 indicates progress, Farah insists that real change will only come through effective implementation. She urges Indonesian leaders to expedite the recognition of indigenous rights, stressing that the mapped territories demand urgent action.
Farah emphasizes the need for streamlined laws to eliminate bureaucratic delays. “A swift pathway for securing land titles is essential,” she notes. Clear authority, enough resources, and effective coordination among government agencies are crucial for translating these commitments into tangible results.
In summary, the fate of Indonesia’s forests and the well-being of its future generations hinge on decisive action today. Empowering indigenous communities with the necessary legal tools can protect not just local ecosystems but the global climate as well.
For more information on indigenous rights and environmental protection, you can visit the Ford Foundation.
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