Safeguarding Indigenous Bio-Cultural Heritage in the South Pacific Small Island States

Abstract

The South Pacific region is both bio-diverse and rich in cultural heritage. The two areas not isolated and indeed it has been said that biological and cultural diversity are ‘inextricably linked’. This can be illustrated by the use that has been made of biodiversity by Indigenous peoples and the traditional ecological knowledge that has developed throughout the region. Most of these countries have progressed some way towards establishing legislative frameworks for Indigenous land and marine tenure, rights in relation to natural resources and protected area management. However much is left to be done in relation to legal regimes to prevent the degradation and exploitation of bio-cultural heritage. This paper will examine the international law that supports the conservation and sustainable use of bio-cultural heritage and in particular draw attention to the need for greater interconnectedness between the Conventions on Biodiversity and the Safeguarding of Intangible Heritage. In conclusion the paper will highlight the challenges that remain to ensure that the integrity of bio-cultural heritage is secured for the present and future generations.