The ASSEGAIA declaration is a landmark document in the history of the protection of natural landscapes. It was written by an international delegation of scientists, conservationists, environmental advocates, spiritual guardians, human rights experts, indigenous leaders and global NGOs.
The document was presented by the ASSEGAIA alliance on January 21, 2020 during the World Economic Forum in Davos.
The declaration calls on governments, the United Nations, international organizations, local communities and private companies to adopt an ecocentric model for the protection of natural landscapes. This includes a holistic approach that puts the rights of nature first and protects the indigenous communities that protect, preserve and restore these sites.
In support of the declaration, indigenous elders held simultaneous ceremonies at holy sites around the world.
The picture in the background shows Lake Fundudzi in Venda, South Africa, which is protected by ASSSEGAIA and the TAO Foundation.
“When the Last Tree Is Cut Down, the Last Fish Eaten, and the Last Stream Poisoned, You Will Realize That You Cannot Eat Money”
Alanis Obomsawin