Recognition and defence of the commons – A facilitated fishbowl discussion
After the three session on Recognition and defence of the commons, this session gives back the platform to local community members, so that they can reflect on what they have heard.
Local community members and their representatives will be invited into the central circle of the fishbowl. They will have the opportunity to pose questions and engage in discussion with the facilitators and presenters of the three previsions sessions.
Other participants seated in the outer circles will also be able to join the inner circle if they feel they have something to contribute to the discussion. However, the priority will be given to local community members.
TRANSCRIPT DRAFT
Meeting summary for Recognition and defence of the commons – A facilitated discussion (09/12/2024)
Quick recap
XXX discussed the challenges and opportunities of conservation efforts in Romania, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive approach and the importance of maintaining active connections with institutions. He also highlighted the importance of researchers explaining their work and influencing policy, and the need for collective action to influence European Union policies around Commons. The discussion also touched on the concept of Commons in Europe, the challenges of adapting to changing economic and environmental conditions, and the role of Swiss Commons in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals.
Next steps
- Swiss government to recognize and include Swiss commons in the Swiss SDG commitment.
- Swiss Commons Association to meet with the responsible department to discuss inclusion in SDG discussions.
- Swiss government to reduce bureaucratic regulations hindering commons’ operations.
- Swiss government to mobilize resources for sustainable forest management as per SDG 15.
- Swiss Commons to continue sustainable management of forests and pasture lands.
- Swiss Commons to work on making forests climate resilient for the future.
- Swiss government to support commons in implementing SDGs through funding and reduced regulations.
- Swiss Commons to maintain traditional practices while adapting to modern challenges.
- Researchers to continue studying Swiss commons as examples of sustainable resource management.
- Swiss Commons Association to advocate for recognition of commons’ contributions to SDGs.
Summary
Romanian Commoners and Forest Conservation
XXX discussed the current landscape of commoners in Romania, highlighting the historical context and legal framework that governs these associations. He noted that these commoners, which represent 14% of Romania’s forest lands, are not homogeneous and face challenges such as internal divisions, out-migration, and aging population. XXX also mentioned that conservation is not a primary aim for most of these commoners, and some have been negatively impacted by private conservation efforts. He emphasized the importance of maintaining active connections with institutions to understand these processes and facilitate helpful collaborations.
Conservation, Inclusion, and European Policy
XXX discussed the importance of conservation and its impact on livelihoods, human rights, and collective rights. He emphasized the need for a more inclusive approach to conservation, highlighting the potential of the Commons to address societal challenges. XXX also touched on the European cultural policy and the need for explicit consideration of the Commons in its design. He noted the challenges of differing legal histories and political cultures across Europe, suggesting that each nation should find its own way. He concluded by expressing the need for a collective approach within the calendar applications.
Amplifying Research Voices and Influencing Policy
XXX reflects on the importance of researchers explaining the usefulness of their work and amplifying their voices through various channels such as the press and international actors. He also discusses the ownership of research agendas, highlighting that owners and stakeholders have different objectives that need to be considered. Additionally, XXX emphasizes the challenges and opportunities faced when engaging with advisers and trying to influence policy, noting the need for a collaborative approach.
Exploring Commons in Europe and ICC
XXX discussed the concept of Commons in Europe and its connection to the International Commons Consortium (ICC). He expressed his belief that the ICC is more inclusive and familiar than it may seem, and he encouraged others to reflect on this. XXX also supported the idea of strengthening the bonds between the consortium and international accounts. He then shifted the discussion to the need for collective action to influence European Union policies around Commons. He suggested quantifying and mapping Commons in Europe to present a strong case to EU decision-makers. XXX also mentioned a growing network of researchers from 20 European countries who are working on this effort. He concluded by highlighting the potential for research to both promote and potentially hinder the goals of Commons.
Legal Recognition and Collective Approaches
XXX discussed the need for better recognition and legal recognition of comments, particularly in relation to collective approaches and the challenges posed by the legal systems that often favor private property. He highlighted the issue of liability in the application for subsidies, noting that the current system often requires a single person to take responsibility for the entire community. XXX also emphasized the importance of scientific data in advocating against state decisions and big private companies. He expressed interest in learning more about the collective approach to applying for subsidies in the Netherlands.
Supporting Commoners in Natural Resource Management
XXX discussed the importance of science and research in understanding and managing natural resources. He highlighted the challenges faced by local communities in managing their resources and the need for scientific data to support their efforts. XXX also emphasized the need to recognize and support commoners in their management of natural resources, as they often contribute significantly without being fully acknowledged. He expressed his commitment to helping commoners through research and data, and hoped that this would enable them to continue their efforts in managing resources sustainably.
Conservation Challenges and Long-Term Commitment
XXX discussed the challenges and importance of conservation efforts, particularly in relation to forest fires and their impact on the landscape. He highlighted the need for long-term commitment and the importance of demonstrating this commitment to the communities involved. XXX also shared his personal experiences as an environmental engineer and farmer, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices. He concluded by expressing his concerns about the potential for people to lose faith in conservation efforts if they do not see immediate results.
Adapting to Changing Economic Conditions
XXX discussed the challenges of adapting to changing economic and environmental conditions, particularly in the context of European Union policies and local economies. He highlighted the importance of collective action and the need for authorities to adapt regulations to ground realities. XXX also mentioned the role of organizations like the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in promoting cultural landscapes and conservation efforts. He concluded by announcing a change in the organization’s name to “Territory of Life” to emphasize the importance of community and life on the territory.
Building Bridges and Addressing Challenges
XXX emphasized the importance of building bridges between communities, governments, and organizations to address global challenges. He highlighted the need for collective and shared research with commerce organizations, drawing parallels with action anthropology. XXX also criticized the omission of common property in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), arguing that this omission allows private sector interests to legitimize resource grabbing under the guise of a green agenda. He suggested that research should focus on how local communities have reacted to these processes and how they can develop alternatives during the implementation phase of the SDGs. XXX also discussed the challenges faced by commerce organizations in Switzerland, noting that those with strong identities and values related to their common resources are better equipped to manage these challenges. Finally, he introduced Elias, the new director of the Swiss commoners, who will be taking over from XXX .
Swiss Commons: Origins and Evolution
Elias provided a historical overview of the Swiss Commons, tracing their origins back to the medieval ages and their evolution over time. He explained that these organizations were initially formed to manage communal resources such as land, forests, and water, and were recognized by cantonal constitutions. Despite not having national recognition, they enjoy similar rights as municipalities and are democratically elected. Elias also highlighted the militia system’s strong connection to the Swiss Commons, with their governments often leading the executive boards. He concluded by noting that the Swiss Commons still exist in 18 cantons, with different names but similar structures.
Swiss Commons and Sustainable Development Goals
Elias discussed the role and challenges of Swiss Commons in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He highlighted that these Commons, which manage over 40% of Swiss forests and pasture lands, are not subsidized by the government and often face bureaucratic hurdles. Elias emphasized the importance of recognizing the work of these Commons and their potential to contribute to SDGs such as affordable and clean energy, climate action, and sustainable land use. He also noted the need for more sustainable forestry practices and the potential for collaboration with the Swiss government. XXX thanked Elias for his presentation and suggested that the Swiss government’s recognition of the Commons could serve as a model for other countries.