This new UN-REDD Programme publication provides an analytical framework to guide the REDD+ readiness and implementation processes by examining the interactions between existing initiatives of Payment for Environmental Services (PES), other incentives to protect forests and the current development of collective land and natural resources tenure of indigenous peoples in the Mesoamerican region.

The new UN-REDD Programme publication, entitled "Tenure of Indigenous Peoples Territories and REDD+ as a Forestry Management Incentive: The Case of Mesoamerican Countries", provides an analytical framework to guide the REDD+ readiness and implementation processes by examining the interactions between existing initiatives of Payment for Environmental Services (PES), other incentives to protect forests and the current development of collective land and natural resources tenure of indigenous peoples in the Mesoamerican region.

This publication is aimed at experts involved in REDD+ initiatives as well as national policy makers who are engaged in the design of policies and programmes for investment in land administration and natural resources tenure. It is especially targeted for those who work on REDD+ activities in the region and for those involved in land rights recognition processes in indigenous territories.

Key issues of the study include the evolution of land tenure and territorial rights, local governance and the current situation of natural resources and public policy regarding indigenous peoples’ territories. The publication examines the development of national and international legal frameworks, the analysis of institutional issues and the way in which existing governance systems can facilitate the implementation of REDD+ proposals in indigenous and peasant forest territories in Mesoamerica. This publication includes the current situation in southeast Mexico, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Honduras, Costa Rica and Panama.

It also includes lessons learned from the most significant Mesoamerican initiatives that within a framework of recognized land tenure rights, have tested economic instruments and systems of organization that contribute to the conservation and good management of forests, through community enterprises or PES systems, and have been promoted by indigenous and peasant communities with funding from international cooperation and national governments.

Download the publication in English and Spanish.