The author's response.

• Author: Chapin, Mac
• Position: FROM READERS

The discussion sparked by this article, which began even before it appeared in World Watch, is gratifying. WWF, CI, and TNC all agree that the issues raised in the article are valid and important and need to be addressed. Of the three, WWF--here represented by the U.S. and International branches--goes furthest in committing itself to three resolutions designed to create more effective partnerships with indigenous and traditional peoples. All of this is a positive sign.

The issues are complex and far from clear-cut, and cannot be adequately addressed in a brief exchange. Open dialogue such as that mentioned in most of the letters, followed by real--rather than token--action, must happen if there is to be any advancement in relations between conservationists and indigenous and traditional peoples. We need to build a more socially responsible brand of conservation characterized by effective, more evenly balanced partnerships, better communication, a regard for the rights of local people (be they indigenous or not), and accountability. At present, all of these are in short supply, but now we have a recognition that something must be done to straighten things out.

My fear at this point is that once the harsh light of reality makes its appearance--something that is all too common the day after resolutions are made and the buzz has worn off--the openness we are all talking about will quietly slink away and go back into hiding. There are strong pressures for this to happen. An official from one of the large international conservationist NGOs recently wrote me, in reference to the article, "I think there are many people within these organizations who share your view, but will not dare say a thing because of their circumstance." If we are to advance, we must work to break down this reluctance to speak out and confront the issues squarely, and we must move beyond the traditional rhetoric to action. This is not impossible, but it will require a tremendous amount of determination, courage, and political will. It will also require, as J. Alcorn and A. Zarzycki point out, "a serious investment in the structural changes and budget allocations necessary for collaborating with indigenous peoples."

Two last points. First, the letters from WWF, TNC, and CI...