Indigenous Peoples Leading Biodiversity Conservation and Climate Resilience

Tebtebba is convening the Indigenous Peoples Assistance Facility (IPAF) Cycle 6 Project Learning Exchange from 27 April to 2 May 2026 in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The gathering is held both physically and virtually, bringing together partners from across the Asia-Pacific region.

Since the launch of the IPAF 6th Cycle in 2024, 17 projects have advanced Indigenous Peoples’ conservation and sustainable management of biodiversity as a pathway to climate change adaptation and resilience. As the projects near completion, this gathering provides a timely opportunity to reflect on progress, share lessons, and strengthen collective efforts to sustain project gains.

The Learning Exchange will create a space for intercultural dialogue among community partners, project implementers, and Indigenous leaders to share outcomes, challenges, and emerging impacts – particularly on women and youth. It also aims to identify ways forward, including strategies to sustain achievements beyond project timelines, ensuring that Indigenous knowledge, rights, and community-driven initiatives remain at the center of climate action and biodiversity conservation.

Grounded in the cycle’s theme, “Advancing Indigenous Peoples’ Conservation and Sustainable Management of Biodiversity for Adaptation and Resilience to Climate Change,” the exchange highlights the critical role of Indigenous Peoples in safeguarding the world’s remaining biodiversity despite facing disproportionate climate impacts. Through their deep connection to lands, territories, and knowledge systems, Indigenous communities continue to offer vital solutions rooted in sustainability, innovation, and resilience.

Originally Published in https://www.facebook.com/Tebtebba Read more here about the IPAF: https://tinyurl.com/ythaavev

IPAF 6th Cycle 2022-2026

International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)