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A biocultural community protocol may be developed for a number of different reasons. In general,
communities have one or both of the following overarching motivations:
Proactive or aspirational: Communities can invite external actors to contribute to their plans and
priorities in constructive ways such as ensuring their participation in decision-making processes
that affect them. This may involve seeking outright recognition of their ways of life and
relationships with their territories and areas. It may also involve working collaboratively towards a
tangible outcome such as a benefit-sharing agreement. Seeking mutual benefits is an important
part of this approach.
Defensive: Communities can call on external actors to cease harmful activities that are already
occurring or that have the potential to occur if plans progress unchecked. This often involves
seeking recognition of procedural and substantive rights and responsibilities to prevent future
harms. Communities may also seek redress for past injustices or mediation for conflict resolution.
International laws and policies
External
actors
Laws that support our
aspirations
Our community
Our biocultural heritge,
including our values,
customary laws
Traditional leadership and
decision-making structures
Our aspirations and
challenges
What positive actions we
request of outsiders
What conduct is required
from outsiders when
engaging us
Contact details
The conduct with which
outsiders should approach
and engage wth the
community
Positive actions called for
by the community
National laws and
policies
Aspirations
Traditional leadership
and decision-making
structures
Biocultural heritage
Figure 1: The foundations of a biocultural community protocol