The Commons: natural intelligence for an artificial age

In a transformative shift, some local communities are now recognised as pivotal players in the governance and management of natural resources within their territories. This approach not only protects biodiversity but also enriches the cultural landscapes of Europe. By harnessing traditional knowledge and communal practices, in areas where these systems still exist, these communities create “territories of life,” fostering an environment where biodiversity thrives alongside human culture. Furthermore, this symbiotic relationship enhances the resilience of ecosystems. Communities that are actively participating in stewardship help preserve vital habitats and restore degraded areas. As they continue their engagement in sustainable practices, the commons and territories if life —shared resources managed collectively—flourish, demonstrating a powerful link between local governance and global biodiversity objectives. Recognizing the synergy between local governance and biodiversity conservation can catalyse significant progress toward national, regional, and global biodiversity and restoration goals. By emphasising the importance of community-led initiatives, policymakers can inspire a more inclusive approach to environmental management, that not only ensures the protection of biodiversity but also fosters a sense of ownership and pride in their shared resources. This presentation in this session, from a mixture of organisations and academics explores this relationship between local communities and their... Read More

The previous session highlighted the vital relationship between local communities and their environments, showcasing how recognizing this interconnectedness can lead to sustainable futures. Communities thrive within their territories of life, where they engage with biodiversity, restoration and sustainable development in meaningful ways. When local voices are at the forefront of discussions, we hear first-hand the aspirations and challenges faced by those who directly depend on their environment. Moreover, these communities exemplify the concept of commons and territories of life. They manage resources collectively, respecting their cultural heritage while promoting ecological balance. This dynamic fosters resilience, allowing communities to adapt and thrive even amidst changing environmental conditions. This session prioritises the insights of local community members, placing their voices and experiences centre stage. This approach amplifies the narrative that sustainability is not merely an academic endeavour. Instead, it is a collaborative effort that draws upon diverse knowledge systems rooted in tradition and experience. Understanding how communities navigate their relationship with biodiversity sheds light on innovative practices that could benefit broader ecological initiatives.

Reflections from foundations

Identifying and restoring the commons

Pablo Dominguez The surprising lack of data on European commons, while it is one of the regions of the world with more public statistics available, particularly within the EU and neighboring countries, where there is not even a single mention to the commons in the present CAP (2023-2027) nor in the EU Green Deal with its associated strategies (Biodiversity & Farm to Fork Strategies, Climate Law, etc.). I will claim that the “invisible reality” of the European commons cannot be ignored any longer, especially considering the new EU ambitious agri-environmental targets set by the new ‘green’ policies mentioned above, quite aligned also with the achievement of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. In such a context, presenting and discussing different ongoing or possible future ways for identifying and mapping the commons at continental scale could help policy and legislation progress in favor of the commons, while considering the risks and opportunities of such a procedure.   Matteo Sposato LandMark is a global initiative aimed at providing Indigenous Peoples and local communities with a platform to map and communicate the lands they hold and manage, with the goal of strengthening their claims, of highlighting the contributions of these territories to solving the... Read More

Reflections from people working on urban commons

Networking and side sessions including: – “Rencontre et échanges des communiers en France”. Organisé par Gretchen Walters, Ilanne Kaczmarek, Alys Crétier, Olivier Hymas. Financé par la Fondation de France – ICCA – Session Two. Internal ICCA Consortium matters -Implementing the ICCA Consortium Strategy. Expected attendance: Members and Honorary Members of the ICCA Consortium – Note: this session will be in parallel with other sessions of the European Commons Conference – zoom. – Response to Request for case studies: Addressing barriers to advance IP & LC led governance of protected and conserved areas see Case study request Solicitud de estudio de caso , or Demande d’étude de cas .  

Joint meeting of the European regional chapters of the ICCA Consortium and International Association for the Study of the Commons

Si les glaciers ne revenaient pas (If the glaciers don’t return) in French. Trailer here. Synopsis This is a thought-provoking documentary that highlights the urgent environmental challenges facing the Alps as glaciers rapidly retreat. Directed by Swiss filmmaker Yves Magat, the film delves into the implications of glacier loss on mountain agriculture, tourism, energy production, and ecosystems. With scientific forecasts predicting the disappearance of most Alpine glaciers by the end of the century, the film raises critical questions about water management in the future. The documentary follows Gaëtan Morard, director of the Valaisan Bisses Museum, as he explores the traditional irrigation systems known as “bisses.” Traditional irrigation, designated as UNESCO intangible cultural heritage in 2023, have long been used by mountain communities to share and manage water collectively. Morard examines whether this traditional knowledge could offer sustainable solutions to water shortages exacerbated by climate change. Through interviews with experts and visits to key sites, “Si les glaciers ne revenaient pas” sheds light on the delicate balance between human activities and the natural environment. As global attention turns to glacier preservation—especially with 2025 declared the International Year for Glacier Preservation—the film underscores the importance of collective action and sustainable resource management... Read More

Tour of the commons of Mourex

Communicating the commons

Context of Land Commons Legislation In recent years, land commons have garnered increased attention across Europe, particularly in France, Spain, and Italy. Each country presents a unique legal framework that governs these communal resources, intertwining rich historical traditions with modern regulations. By examining these distinct legislative landscapes, we can better understand how cultural and legal nuances shape the stewardship of land commons across Europe. Challenges and Legal Responses Despite their significance, land commons face pressing challenges, including urbanization, environmental degradation, and legal ambiguities. In response, jurists in these nations are developing innovative legal frameworks to safeguard these vital assets. By coordinating a roundtable discussion, we can explore these responses and foster collaborative solutions to protect land commons in Europe.

Drafting session 1 European commons research agenda

Drafting session 2 Declaration on the European commons Changing the Three Blind Mice Approach to European Biodiversity

Closing reflections from the ICCA Consortium and IASC

It is not that we speak aloud about the spaces which belong to us, or rather which we belong to. We rather show it, most in our regalia. When dressing to our land rights´ evidences, it is a practical, aesthetical and visual form of announcing something, rather than saying aloud this is where I am from/ this is who I am/ these are my Guardian Spirits. When discussing the effects of climate change, change in land use, man-made damages on land, or the attempts to repair and recover the damages done in a meaningful way, we always speak about the land rights. That is inevitable. Because unclarity of land use causes horrific land management- it is no-one´s responsibility and not happening in my backyard, and therefore the rules of best possible conduct and management don´t apply. Losing land rights means losing a right to an endemic legal system- the meaningfulness of traditional (customary) law- with its punishments, if you do not follow the land use law- , which leads to the corrosion of traditional practices that are alive only in every- day use, which leads the collapse of the threads that binds a people together, and makes us being the we:... Read More

High level opening tbc (5 mins) IUCN Opening (10 mins) Events objectives & framing Showing information radiator from conference (add to it during breaks) This opening session introduces the objectives of the meeting. A meeting that framed around the role of communities in conservation and restoration, and the challenges that they face. The key objectives central to conservation and restoration efforts in Europe: Firstly, it will examine the contributions of various actors to conservation  and restoration initiatives. Secondly, the extent to which these contributions can be acknowledged as Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs) will be assessed. Thirdly, the meeting aims to evaluate the current approach to OECMs at national and regional levels, facilitating a multi-stakeholder dialogue to develop a unified roadmap. Finally the meeting will assess what opportunities the recently passed EU Restoration Law will have on OECMs and how it could include the efforts that existing non-state actors are carrying out.  

Session overview: Length: 60 minutes Format: Panel discussion Key objective Provide local and national perspectives on land stewardship and biodiversity outcomes

Session overview: Length: 90 minutes Key objectives Introduce other world views & languages to describe nature & conservation Highlight the reality of local communities The rise of Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs) marks a transformative approach to conservation, moving away from exclusive reliance on governmental actions. To optimize this new direction, it is essential for the conservation community to embrace a variety of knowledge systems, extending beyond conventional practices. This session will emphasize a collaboration between an organization and local community members, focusing on the story behind the creation of the Sami Headdress. It aims to underscore the significance of incorporating local narratives into the application of the OECM toolkit, thereby enriching conservation efforts and community engagement.

Menti poll What was your key takeaway from the morning? What is your current understanding of OECMs? (scale)

Session overview: Length: 15 minutes Format: 15 minute keynote PowerPoint presentation Key objectives Introduce OECMs (acknowledging different levels of knowledge of workshop participants) Provide context and key information related to OECMs at global and regional levels This session examines the vital role of Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs) in promoting biodiversity globally and regionally. It will emphasize the importance of acknowledging various other conservation systems that contribute to biodiversity. By focusing on these alternative approaches, the session seeks to foster a holistic understanding of how different conservation strategies collaborate to enhance biodiversity and sustainability. Understanding these diverse systems is crucial for achieving effective environmental stewardship.

Session overview: Length: 10 minutes Format: 1 x 10 minute keynote PowerPoint presentation Key objectives Introduce OECMs (acknowledging different levels of knowledge of workshop participants) Provide context and key information related to OECMs at global and regional levels This session examines the vital role of Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs) in promoting biodiversity globally and regionally. It will emphasize the importance of acknowledging various other conservation systems that contribute to biodiversity. By focusing on these alternative approaches, the session seeks to foster a holistic understanding of how different conservation strategies collaborate to enhance biodiversity and sustainability. Understanding these diverse systems is crucial for achieving effective environmental stewardship.

Briefly introduce the OECM toolkit

Sharing of local experiences from Finland and Sweden of applying OECMs with other local communities (40 mins) Learn from the experience of Finland and Sweden in using the OECM toolkit Discuss ways to adapt the tool for European context Responses/questions from European community members (35 mins) In recent years, the OECMs toolkit has undergone practical testing within local communities in Finland and Sweden. This roundtable event offers a platform for these communities to share their findings and experiences with representatives from other European localities, including France, Turkey, Slovenia, and Italy. Participants will discuss the effectiveness of the toolkit and its applicability in diverse contexts, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among European communities. The insights gained from these shared experiences aim to enhance the implementation of OECMs strategies across different regions. 

Bringing perspectives together 1-4-8-ALL

Menti poll, Wrap-up and check-out

The previous day’s session focused on the potential for community-based Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs) in Europe. Participants engaged in detailed discussions regarding the various opportunities and challenges associated with implementing these conservation strategies at the community level. Key insights were shared about how local involvement can enhance the effectiveness of conservation efforts. Additionally, the importance of integrating community perspectives and knowledge into the planning and management of OECMs was highlighted.

Session overview: Length: 60 minutes Key objectives Learn from private actors on the incentives and  approaches to OECMs Understand challenges and progress made with OECMs by state actors Discuss how communities or private land owners become recognised as contributing to biodiversity? Highlight whole-of-government and whole-of-society approaches, and discuss how they can work together

Session overview: Length: 45 minutes Key objectives Demonstrate how EU restoration law can support OECMs

Session overview: Length 45 minutes Format: Roundtable – 7 speakers (4 online, one Spanish speaker), facilitated by Carla Danelutti. No PPTs, but require support with connecting and presenting online speakers Key objectives Demonstrate how EU marine conservation can support OECMs

This drafting session aims to create technical documents focused on the implementation of community-based Other Effective Area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs) in Europe. The session will address existing challenges while highlighting the potential benefits that traditional local community-based OECMs could provide in advancing towards the 30×30 objectives. Participants will explore effective strategies and methods to enhance collaboration with local communities, ultimately fostering sustainable practices that align with these conservation goals.

This drafting session will be held to develop two main outputs. The first is a technical document: the IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA) Technical Notes, which will concentrate on Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs) in Europe. The second output is the IUCN OECMs Pathways White Paper for Europe, aiming to analyse various strategies and approaches concerning OECMs in the region. The purpose of these documents is to improve understanding and provide guidance on OECMs, thereby their implementation and enhancing their effectiveness in European conservation initiatives.