Training manual on free prior informed consent (FPIC) in REDD+ for indigineous peoples

Summary

 This Training Manual on Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) in REDD+ for Indigenous Peoples is the third in a series of four manuals after What is REDD?, What to do with REDD?, and Understanding Community-based REDD+. The first two publications (i.e., What is REDD and What to do with REDD?) were focused on raising awareness of indigenous communities for a better understanding of the concept of REDD+, on what the possible impacts and opportunities of REDD+ are, and how to protect their rights in REDD+ processes and mechanisms. The manual on Understanding Community-based REDD+, on the other hand, focused on assisting indigenous communities to gain knowledge, skills and equip them for full and effective participation in REDD+.

This manual is the product of the collective work of indigenous peoples’ leaders and representatives engaging in processes related to REDD+. The process that has resulted in this manual includes a write-shop of indigenous representatives from REDD+ countries, a review of materials relating to REDD+ and FPIC, and consultations with indigenous experts. The initial draft served as the guide for the Regional Training of Trainers (TOT) on FPIC in REDD+. This process ensures the reflection of the perspectives of indigenous peoples in development of this manual.

Since the REDD+ final design and architecture - including its key elements such as financing and the system of information, implementation and monitoring of safeguards - is under negotiations for a comprehensive agreement on REDD+, this manual should be treated as a working guide. It shall be updated according to key developments relating to REDD+ and the experiences and insights of indigenous peoples on the application of environmental and social safeguards, including the right to FPIC of indigenous peoples in REDD+.