Introduction
Joan Carling is a fearless champion of indigenous rights and environmental justice, whose advocacy has spanned over two decades. A native of the Philippines, she has dedicated her life to defending the land, culture, and sovereignty of marginalized communities against exploitation and environmental destruction. As the former Secretary-General of the Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact, Carling has played a pivotal role in amplifying the voices of indigenous groups on global platforms, including the United Nations. Her unwavering commitment to human rights has often put her at great personal risk, yet she remains steadfast in her mission. Recognized with the UN Environment Programme’s Champions of the Earth Award in 2018, Carling stands as a symbol of resilience, fighting for a world where development does not come at the cost of indigenous peoples’ survival.
Skills
Experience
Secretary-General
Asia Indigenous Peoples Pact (AIPP) | 2008 - 2016
Led the largest network of indigenous organizations in Asia, advocating for land rights, climate justice, and sustainable development, fostering regional and global policy dialogues.
Co-Convenor
Indigenous Peoples Major Group for Sustainable Development (IPMG) | 2016 - Present
Advocates for the integration of indigenous rights into global development policies, particularly within the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework.
Land Rights Advocate & Policy Consultant
Various International Organizations | 1990s - Present
Consulted and collaborated with organizations like UNEP and ILO to strengthen land tenure security and prevent land dispossession.
Champion of the Earth Awardee
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) | 2018
Honored for outstanding leadership in defending land and environmental rights for indigenous communities worldwide.
Co-Founder
Indigenous Peoples Rights International (IPRI) | 2019 - Present
Founded an organization dedicated to defending indigenous leaders and activists facing criminalization for protecting their lands.
Support for UN Goals
Climate Action
As a strong supporter of climate justice, Carling connects indigenous rights with environmental protection, emphasizing that the sustainable practices of indigenous communities are crucial in mitigating climate change. She promotes the preservation of indigenous lands, which play a vital role in carbon sequestration and biodiversity protection.
Life on Land
Carling’s advocacy directly aligns with SDG 15, aiming to protect, restore, and promote the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems. She champions indigenous knowledge and land stewardship practices that contribute to the restoration and sustainable management of forests, ecosystems, and biodiversity.
Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
Carling works to ensure that indigenous communities have access to justice and the protection of their land rights through the strengthening of legal frameworks and institutions. She challenges land grabs and defends the rights of indigenous activists facing criminalization for land defense.
SDGPartnerships for the Goals
Carling collaborates with various stakeholders, including UN bodies, governments, and civil society organizations, to advance the SDGs related to indigenous rights and land protection. Her partnerships help bring global attention to indigenous issues and ensure their voices are included in international development dialogues.
Joan Carling's Volunteering Schedule
| Day | Time | Availability | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Available | Virtual meetings with indigenous community leaders to discuss land rights and environmental issues. |
| Tuesday | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Available | Collaborating with UN bodies or NGOs on policy development for indigenous land protection. |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Available | Attending or organizing webinars on environmental justice and climate action. |
| Thursday | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Available | Participating in international advocacy sessions or speaking engagements (either in person or virtually). |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Available | Conducting research on the impact of land dispossession on indigenous communities. |
| Saturday | Afternoon (Flexible) | Available | Participating in international coalitions and partnerships for land rights. |
| Sunday | All Day | Not Available | Day off for personal time and reflection. |