More about the ISE Congresses

Your donation helps support the ISE Congress in bringing together people from across the globe to discuss and promote biological and cultural diversity.

Supporting and promoting the critical efforts of indigenous peoples, traditional societies, and local communities in the protection of biological, cultural and linguistic diversity has been the ISE’s priority since the inaugural international congress.  Today, the ISE continues its groundbreaking efforts in providing a platform for a meaningful and respectful dialogue among people of diverse views, cultures and backgrounds. During the ISE Congresses participants tackle the most difficult and challenging, yet promising questions of our times – cultural and intellectual property rights, endogenous development, agrobiodiversity and climate change adaptation, to name a few – informing the global discourse and advancing debates to new levels.

The variation of congress session formats reflects the breadth of cultures,  such as academic sessions featuring oral presentations and discussion on the latest research findings; interactive workshops and panel discussions; story telling sessions led by Elders; and unique discussion sessions built around walks or shared meals. Congresses are intended to be highly interactive and participatory and to foster a commitment by participants to building understanding and trust toward a common goal.

Building on the traditions of past ISE congresses, the 14th ISE Congress in Bhutan will yet again bring together indigenous and non-indigenous participants from around the world to tackle the key issues of our times.

Yes, I want to help the ISE in their pursuit of understanding and protecting biocultural diversity!

Donations towards ISE Congresses are used to support ISE Congress Awards and the ISE pre-Congress Workshop for Emerging Ethnobiologists. A donation of $125 covers Congress registration fees for a student or member of a traditional, local or Indigenous community.

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 Important Congress Outcomes

1^st Congress – Declaration of Belem

2^nd Congress – Kunming Action Plan established the ISE Global Coalition for Biocultural Diversity

10^th Congress – Code of Ethics unanimously approved by ISE Members

11^th Congress – Cusco Declaration

13^th Congress – Montpellier Statement (Listen to it read in French at Rio+20 by the Mayor of Montpellier)