Salween Peace Park

In an area of South-Eastern Myanmar marked by 70 years of conflict, the Salween Peace Park is the result of a Karen indigenous grassroots movement for stability and conservation of a 5,400 square kilometer continuous ecosystem made up of protected areas, community forests and indigenous lands. Based on an indigenous vision of sustainable use of natural resources, coupled with traditional practices and taboos, local communities lead a life that respects wildlife and local ecosystems. A camera-trap program led by female researchers has shown remarkable species diversity in the area, contributing to the conservation of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. Organic agriculture has allowed villagers to recover livelihoods in an area impoverished from decades of conflict. Established in 2014 in a highly participatory process and founded upon principles of peace and self-determination, ecological integrity and cultural survival, the Salween Peace Park is an expression of Karen indigenous identity.