Community-based fire management (CBFiM) is increasingly recognized as a vital approach for addressing the growing complexity of wildfire risk, especially in landscapes shaped by diverse socio-ecological dynamics, traditional land-use practices and climate variability. Rooted in participatory governance, tenure security and local knowledge systems, CBFiM enables local communities to be proactive agents in fire prevention, preparedness, response and recovery.
Despite mounting evidence of its effectiveness, CBFiM remains insufficiently embedded in national policies and international climate commitments. Barriers such as inadequate recognition of customary institutions and rights, limited access to resources and fragmented governance frameworks impede the institutionalization and scalability of CBFiM approaches.
Co-hosted by RECOFTC, Tropenbos International and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), this plenary session will amplify the voices of Indigenous Peoples, local communities and other underrepresented actors at the forefront of fire management.