Document Abstract
Published:
1 Feb 2011
Free, prior and informed consent in REDD+: principles and approaches for policy and project development
Guidelines for incorporating free, prior and informed consent into REDD+ projects
The right for indigenous people to give or withhold their free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) has recently been strengthened through the adoption of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. These guidelines are an attempt to support such growing willingness to respect FPIC, particularly for those working on REDD+ policy and/or projects in Southeast Asia.
Drawing from examples around the world and the contribution of numerous organisations, this publication aims to serve as a basis for developing country-specific guidelines for incorporating FPIC into REDD+. The publication begins by discussing the importance of FPIC in REDD+. FPIC has until recently been largely neglected with pragmatic approaches favoured due to potential complexities, lack of communication and a lack of knowledge of obligations and rights. The abstract nature of carbon credits, confusion (and potential conflict) over land tenure and the actions of governments with an eye on resources together make FPIC a complicated issue in REDD+ projects. Without it, however, indigenous peoples risk marginalisation and exploitation despite being crucial to determining the success of these projects.
The majority of the report is split between a reference guide and the guidelines on procedures for respecting the right to FPIC. The reference guide covers questions regarding the context, technicalities and practicalities of FPIC, including when and how REDD+ projects must incorporate FPIC, the legal obligations they face and the potential risks involved, including the risk of refusal of consent. The guidelines themselves comprise of 12 elements, covering the preparation, implementation and monitoring stages of a project. Preparation tasks range from the need to identify legitimate decision-making and rights advocacy institutions to work with to developing processes for seeking consent and facilitating communication. Highlighted with respect to implementing projects is the importance of ensuring access to alternative information and independent advice. Finally, monitoring of initial agreements, the development of a grievance process and the verification of consent complete the guidelines.
Drawing from examples around the world and the contribution of numerous organisations, this publication aims to serve as a basis for developing country-specific guidelines for incorporating FPIC into REDD+. The publication begins by discussing the importance of FPIC in REDD+. FPIC has until recently been largely neglected with pragmatic approaches favoured due to potential complexities, lack of communication and a lack of knowledge of obligations and rights. The abstract nature of carbon credits, confusion (and potential conflict) over land tenure and the actions of governments with an eye on resources together make FPIC a complicated issue in REDD+ projects. Without it, however, indigenous peoples risk marginalisation and exploitation despite being crucial to determining the success of these projects.
The majority of the report is split between a reference guide and the guidelines on procedures for respecting the right to FPIC. The reference guide covers questions regarding the context, technicalities and practicalities of FPIC, including when and how REDD+ projects must incorporate FPIC, the legal obligations they face and the potential risks involved, including the risk of refusal of consent. The guidelines themselves comprise of 12 elements, covering the preparation, implementation and monitoring stages of a project. Preparation tasks range from the need to identify legitimate decision-making and rights advocacy institutions to work with to developing processes for seeking consent and facilitating communication. Highlighted with respect to implementing projects is the importance of ensuring access to alternative information and independent advice. Finally, monitoring of initial agreements, the development of a grievance process and the verification of consent complete the guidelines.
