Global biodiversity hotspots, encompassing a mere 2.4% of the Earth’s land, have seen over 80% of armed conflicts between 1950 and 2000, with some of these conflicts persisting today. Armed conflicts in these vital ecosystems, driven by various factors, have led to substantial biodiversity losses and threatened the indigenous ways of life. A recent study reveals that four-fifths of these armed conflicts within biodiversity hotspots occur on Indigenous lands. Surprisingly, these Indigenous territories have managed to maintain better ecological conditions than non-Indigenous conflict-affected lands. This study underscores the invaluable role of Indigenous peoples in environmental Conservation and emphasizes Indigenous self-determination as a key factor in both biodiversity protection and conflict prevention.

For centuries, Indigenous communities like the Karen people in Myanmar have nurtured a harmonious relationship with their environments. In the Karen’s case, their ancestral forests, nestled in the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot, have served as sanctuaries during the world’s longest-running armed conflict between the Karen National Union and the Myanmar military regime. These forests have provided refuge during military airstrikes and have allowed the Karen to preserve their biodiversity-rich territories.

Armed conflicts within biodiversity hotspots are not unique to Myanmar. Between 1950 and 2000, 90% of major armed conflicts occurred in countries boasting rich biodiversity. Over 80% of these conflicts resulted in significant biodiversity loss and environmental damage. A staggering four-fifths of these conflicts unfolded on Indigenous lands within biodiversity hotspots. Indigenous communities within these conflict zones have borne the brunt of indiscriminate killings, forced displacement, and cultural upheaval as their societies and economies face irrevocable transformations.

Surprisingly, despite these conflicts, Indigenous lands within biodiversity hotspots have experienced less environmental damage and fewer human impacts compared to non-Indigenous conflict-affected lands. A quarter of conflict-affected Indigenous lands within biodiversity hotspots remain “natural lands,” unmodified by humans and supportive of biodiversity, while only 10% of non-Indigenous conflict-affected lands can make the same claim. This discrepancy highlights the value of Indigenous stewardship in conserving the natural world.

Indigenous lands represent some of the last untouched regions on Earth and are increasingly targeted for exploitation and development. Economic interests are drawn to these territories due to the careful relationship Indigenous communities have with their environments, resulting in relatively pristine conditions. Resource-rich lands, such as those inhabited by the Karen people in Myanmar, are at the center of these conflicts, driven by the desire to control mineral resources, teak forests, and suitable sites for hydroelectric dams.

Poverty often forces Indigenous communities into the informal economy, leading to resource overexploitation and internal conflicts. In many cases, governments displace people from their lands for Conservation purposes or territorial expansion, heightening tensions.

Stopping armed conflicts in biodiversity hotspots is a complex endeavor, but Indigenous self-determination and involvement in extractive projects can help maintain peace. Collaboration on Conservation projects, instead of evicting communities or disrupting their livelihoods, addresses the root causes of conflicts.

Indigenous communities, when left to their own devices, exhibit remarkable creativity in problem-solving, as exemplified by the Salween Peace Park in Myanmar. Established in 2018 by local organizations, this park covers a vast area and promotes peace, Conservation, and self-determination. However, the ongoing civil war in Myanmar has recently brought conflict to the park.

After armed conflicts have subsided, peace plans become essential for Conservation work. Post-conflict periods often witness increased environmental degradation as newfound peace attracts investments in extractive activities. Protecting Indigenous rights and environmental defenders becomes even more critical at this stage.

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