On November 27, 2024, the Global Donor Working Group on Land convened a pivotal session as part of the Global Donor Platform for Rural Development Annual General Assembly (AGA). Under the theme “Redefining and Enhancing the Quality of Finance for Sustainable Development,” the event focused on optimizing Official Development Assistance (ODA) to address the needs and rights of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs). The session spotlighted practical approaches to improving the inclusivity, efficiency, and impact of development finance amidst intensifying global crises.

In 2022, countries reached a historic agreement to halt biodiversity loss by conserving at least 30% of land and water by 2030. This marked a critical step toward protecting the world's precious remaining species and ecosystems. But that's not all: The Global Biodiversity Framework, as it's known, also explicitly calls on countries to recognize and uphold Indigenous Peoples and local communities' rights in their conservation strategies.

India has made significant strides in empowering women over the past few decades, starting with self-help groups (SHGs) that became powerful vehicles for social inclusion. Government and NGO efforts later expanded to skilling and livelihood initiatives, helping women increase their income and build small businesses within their communities. Yet, despite this progress, the urgent need remains for a long-term, sustainable solution to women's empowerment.

As I addressed the Fourth International Conference on Youth and Land Governance in Africa (CIGOFA4), I reflected on the critical issue of youth and land access in Africa, which remains a significant barrier to sustainable development. Land is more than an economic asset; it is the foundation of our cultural heritage, our identity, and the key to our future. However, across sub-Saharan Africa, land access continues to pose challenges, especially for our youth. These challenges, if left unaddressed, will hinder Africa's growth.

With USAID support, an Afro-Colombian community received a collective land title, guaranteeing ownership of their traditional lands.

Inclusive land governance at the local level allows for the community’s broader governance ‘muscle’ to be exercised in a constructive and practical way. This can reduce conflict and spark transformative social change.

Defending the rights of nature represents a big step forward in the fight against climate change.