On August 16, more than 130 pastoralists and allies from across our nine regions around the world gathered at the WAMIP basecamp in Gorkhi-Terelj, Mongolia, for the World Pastoralist Assembly (WPA).
The WPA was a pastoralist-led and inclusive space that brought together grassroots pastoralists attending the conference and field trips organised by the Government of Mongolia, IYRP and FAO, alongside WAMIP members from across the world.
From Asia, Africa, Latin America and Europe, we shared our realities, identified the common challenges we face, and discussed how to confront them collectively.
In addition to introducing grassroots pastoralist movements and exchanging ideas, the WPA strengthened our commitment to build a movement and unite our voices to defend our rights. We leave this fruitful space of exchange with shared struggles, new connections, and a stronger determination to turn our discussions into collective action.
Now, we are taking this collective voice to COP17, joining the global discussions on biodiversity and bringing pastoralists’ perspectives and demands into these spaces. We will continue advocating for the recognition of pastoralists as custodians of biodiversity and for policies that protect our territories, mobility, livelihoods, and rights.
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