Acknowledging that responsibility for forest managers must be accepted by governments, local NGOs, business and individuals, without prejudice to the rights of indigenous peoples 13. Acknowledging that indigenous territories including forests must be exclusively managed by indigenous and local people in cooperation with other interested sections of society as may be decided by those indigenous and local people 14. Declaring that all types of forest areas have intrinsic values of their own, are essential for the conservation of biodiversity, and are a source of knowledge, inspiration and spiritual renewal for humanity 15. Assert that this treaty applies to all types of forests, restored forests and plantations in all geographic climatic zones 16. Further assert that the purpose of this treaty is to ensure the conservation, rehabilitation, enhancement, enlargement, natural regeneration, planting, protection and sustainable use of the world's forests as in the case is appropriate to the particular ecosystem.
Forests are essential to life on earth.
The structure, function and integrity of ecosystems must be seen to have infinite value. Every form of forest life is unique and requires adequate habitat and protection. Forests must be protected to supply the social, economic, ecological, cultural and spiritual needs of present and future generations, subject maintenance of the integrity of soil, water, air and the conservation of biodiversity. Forest policy must be developed with maximum public consultation and participation especially with local forest people and community groups, and the public must have the right to appeal and enforce decisions made in the forestry sector. Forests are the very life of many indigenous peoples, and therefore their traditional territories must be legally recognized, demarcated and guaranteed.