What is it about?
A historical problem in the ecological and conservation studies has been the imbalance where research in tropical regions is often led by researchers from the global north, leading to unequal representation and exclusion of local perspectives. The study proposes ten actions to promote equitable collaborations, driven by researchers from the global south, to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion in scientific efforts. These actions encompass changes at institutional, national, and international levels to create a more balanced and inclusive research landscape.
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Why is it important?
The paper highlights the need for equitable collaborations in tropical ecology and conservation. It points out that the global south, home to significant biodiversity and ecosystems, often lacks representation and leadership in the research conducted in its regions. By involving researchers from the global south, this approach aims to ensure that scientific endeavors are more inclusive of local knowledge, social contexts, and scientific expertise. Achieving diversity, equity, and inclusion in research collaborations is essential for effective conservation strategies, sustainable solutions, and lasting positive impacts on the scientific community and the world.
Perspectives
It´s time to involve researchers from the global south in tropical ecology and conservation. We propose some key actions: Equitable Collaboration: Emphasizing that involving researchers from the global south is vital to address the imbalance in tropical research and achieve a more equitable distribution of knowledge and resources. Local Involvement: Advocating for involving local stakeholders and communities in research endeavors to ensure that their perspectives and needs are considered, promoting more effective conservation strategies. Policy Influence: Suggesting that researchers from the global south should engage in policy actions within their countries to prioritize local scientists and their contributions in biodiversity research. Balanced Workload: Stressing the importance of fair distribution of workload and benefits between collaborators from different backgrounds to prevent exploitation and encourage genuine collaboration. Global Impact: Highlighting that leadership and participation from the global south have the potential to drive positive and lasting changes in the scientific community on a global scale, fostering a more inclusive and representative research landscape.
PhD Nicolas Urbina-Cardona
Pontificia Universidad Javeriana
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Global South leadership towards inclusive tropical ecology and conservation, Perspectives in Ecology and Conservation, January 2023, Elsevier,
DOI: 10.1016/j.pecon.2023.01.002.
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