Wilderness in 2024

Wilderness in 2024 has seen remarkable progress and global collaboration. Highlights include the 12th World Wilderness Congress (WILD12), event uniting leaders to advance world wilderness protection, strides in the expansion of Wilderness China, fostering conservation efforts in Asia, and strides in developing the Wilderness Management Textbook, a key resource for practitioners. These achievements reflect a growing commitment to safeguarding global wilderness spaces for future generations.

12^th World Wilderness Congress (WILD12)

The 12th World Wilderness Congress (WILD12), held in South Dakota, was the most important event in international wilderness conservation last year. It gathered global leaders to promote wilderness protection, guided by the motto: “Deepening the Concept of Wilderness through Indigenous Knowledge and Wisdom.” 

From August 25-31, 2024, the congress convened in the Black Hills, bringing together 700 Indigenous leaders, conservation experts, and wilderness advocates from 36 countries, representing over 50 Tribes and Indigenous Nations. Participants included government agencies, NGOs, academics, and private sector representatives, creating a week of meaningful exchange focused on wilderness conservation.

Sápa Resolution

A key outcome of WILD12 was the He Sápa Resolution and Declaration, On Sovereignty and Wilderness: Deepening the Wilderness Concept Through Indigenous Knowledge and Wisdom. This declaration highlighted the interconnected nature of wilderness, integrating ecological, cultural, and spiritual dimensions. 

It called for conservation efforts to respect Indigenous rights, traditional knowledge, and customary laws. The resolution emphasized the importance of blending different perspectives to make the concept of wilderness stronger and more inclusive.The resolution committee, made up of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous members, acknowledged the difficulty of translating centuries of oral traditions into English. Despite this, they stressed the need to include Indigenous terms and ensure Indigenous peoples can remain on their ancestral lands. These steps aim to strengthen the global wilderness movement, as noted in a recent essay published in PARKS.

Technical Note based on the He Sápa Declaration

The IUCN/WCPA Wilderness Specialist Group (WSG) is preparing a Technical Note based on the He Sápa Declaration from WILD12, set for release in Spring/Summer 2025. It will offer guidance on using Indigenous knowledge in wilderness conservation to strengthen global efforts.

To support this, IUCN WCPA, WSG, and the WILD Foundation gathered over 20 case studies before WILD12. These highlight Indigenous and local communities’ effective practices in managing wilderness areas and are being compiled into a publication to promote understanding of Indigenous values. The compilation will share real examples of how Indigenous knowledge supports wilderness protection, encouraging inclusive approaches that honor their wisdom. For details, contact adam@wild.org or Vance@wildernessglobal.org. 

Conclusion

The progress in wilderness conservation in 2024, highlighted by WILD12, the He Sápa Declaration, and global collaborations, reflects a strong commitment to protecting natural spaces. Initiatives like Wilderness China, the Wilderness Management Textbook, and case studies on Indigenous practices emphasize the vital role of inclusion and Indigenous knowledge in safeguarding wilderness for future generations.