17 November 2014: Participants discussed the contribution of hunting and fishing in supporting community-based development and in the planning and management of protected areas (PAs) at a panel session organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO) and the International Council for Game and Wildlife Conservation (CIC). The session took place at the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) World Parks Congress (WPC).

In a keynote speech, the Advisor to the Minister of Environment of Estonia, Hanno Zingel, emphasized the importance of addressing local peoples’ aspirations and needs in PA planning. He said Estonia’s legislation allows hunting and fishing in certain PAs.

Four panelists from Brazil, Finland, Namibia and the Philippines shared their perspectives on the role of sustainable hunting and fishing in PAs and how management can maintain wildlife habitat and food sources. Merljin Van Weerd and Marites Gatan-Balbas discussed how local communities, PA managers and decision-makers view PA benefits in the Philippines. Panelists also discussed, inter alia: the impacts of sustainable hunting and fishing versus other recreational activities in PAs; and the role of hunting and fishing in providing PA financing as well as income for local communities.

Participants concluded that sustainable hunting and fishing in PAs can increase food security, generate income, support livelihoods and cultures and maintain wildlife numbers. They also recognized the role of sustainable hunting and fishing, including falconry, in building local support for biodiversity and habitat conservation.

The WPC convened from 12-19 November 2014 in Sydney, Australia. [FAO Press Release] [CIC Press Release] [IISD RS Coverage of WPC]