Recognizing Indigenous leadership in biodiversity and climate solutions
Led by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the International Indigenous Forum on Biodiversity (IIFB), and IUCN Indigenous Peoples’ Organizations (IPO) Members, the PODONG Indigenous Peoples Initiative demonstrates that when Indigenous Peoples lead in reshaping actions, narratives, and implementation approaches, the results are transformational.
- Asociación Ak'Tenamit, Guatemala
A Ground-to-Global Approach
PODONG responds to longstanding calls for biodiversity conservation and climate solutions that are driven from the ground up. The initiative ensures that:
- Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs) are embedded in governance structures, setting priorities and driving decisions.
- At least 85% of project funds reach IPLCs directly.
- Actions are co-designed and co-implemented with IPLCs, rooted in traditional knowledge systems.
- Results are context-driven and measurable, advancing land rights, inclusive leadership, and gender equality.
Scaling Impact
Through PODONG, we are strengthening our own Indigenous-led approaches and enhancing our contributions to:
- The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, adopted under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).
- The Paris Agreement under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
- The IUCN Global Indigenous Agenda.
Through this work, we are advancing finance reform and ensuring that Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities are recognized as rightsholders, equal partners, and leaders in global biodiversity and climate solutions.
We are currently preparing for the World Summit of Indigenous Peoples and Nature, to take place in Abu Dhabi from October 8 – 10
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This is a temporary page while we consult with Indigenous leaders, partners, and stakeholders to co-create the full PODONG Indigenous Peoples Initiative platform. The official launch will take place soon.