Conservation and displacement : international organizations, environmental protection and the rights of women

Abstract

Environmental conservation projects, such as protected areas, have led in many cases to forced evictions, destruction of homes, and militarization of ecological zoning. “Conservation refugees” have existed in large numbers since colonial times, when the first national parks were instituted. The impacts of such forced and violent relocations are particularly felt by affected women. The institution of protected areas has resulted in the loss of rights and prerogatives in the use of biological resources by local communities where the gendered impact is particularly felt. This paper presents a case law review of some of the complaints that have been brought before the Grievance Redress Mechanisms (GRMs) of International Organisations, with a view to foster a reflection on the accountability of such organizations for women’s rights violations within conservation and displacement.