FIAN is an acronym that stands for the Forest Indigenous Peoples Network. It is a global coalition and network of indigenous peoples from diverse regions around the world who have joined forces to protect, defend, and promote the rights and interests of forest-dependent indigenous communities. FIAN's main objective is to ensure the fundamental human rights of indigenous communities are respected, including their right to land, natural resources, self-determination, cultural heritage, and other collective rights related to their traditional territories.
FIAN works towards advocating for the sustainable and equitable use of natural resources, including forests, and challenges any violations or threats to indigenous peoples' way of life caused by irresponsible resource extraction, deforestation, or land grabbing. The network also seeks to raise awareness about the importance of indigenous knowledge, practices, and traditional ecological systems in achieving sustainable development goals and combating climate change.
FIAN engages in research, capacity building, and direct advocacy efforts to address violations of indigenous peoples' rights and to promote the inclusion of their voices and needs in policies and decision-making processes at the local, national, and international levels. Furthermore, FIAN plays a vital role in fostering solidarity among indigenous communities, enabling them to share experiences, strategies, and knowledge in their quest for social justice, empowerment, and self-determination in relation to forest resources.
