Paper short abstract:

Working in Guyana, we present findings from video-mediated dialogues between Indigenous peoples and decision-makers involved in the management of three protected areas. We show how the participatory video process provides a rich and contextualised understanding of equity issues and enables dialogue.

Paper long abstract:

Improving equity in the context of protected areas conservation cannot be achieved in situations where people have vastly different capabilities to participate. Participatory video has the potential to uncover hidden perspectives and worldviews, as well as build trustworthy, transparent and accountable relationships between marginalised communities and external agencies. In this paper, we present findings from video-mediated dialogues between Indigenous peoples and decision-makers involved in the management of three protected areas in Guyana. Participatory films created by Indigenous researchers in their communities were screened and discussed with protected areas managers, and their responses were recorded and presented back to the communities. We show how the video-mediated process provided a rich and contextualised understanding of equity issues. It enabled recognition and respect for traditional knowledge, Indigenous values and peoples’ lived experiences in the management of protected areas. For Indigenous peoples the participatory video process built confidence and critical reflection on their own activities and responsibilities while allowing them to challenge decision-makers on issues of transparency, communication and accountability. We show that equity is an evolving process in itself, with different protected areas with their differing histories and governance, and associations with Indigenous communities, producing distinct outcomes over time. Thus, promoting equity in protected areas and conservation must be a long-term process, enabling participation and producing the conditions for regular transparent and honest communications. Indicators may be useful to report on international targets, but video-mediated dialogue can facilitate deeper understanding, greater representation, relationship building and a recognition of rights.