Timor-Leste Aims to Nominate Nino Konis Santana National Park as UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

Timor-Leste made significant strides towards enhancing the global recognition of its national park by reinitiating efforts to nominate Nino KonisSantana National Park (NKSNP) as a biosphere reserve site. From August 7-9, 2024, a national workshop was held in Dili and Los Palos, Lautemmunicipality, adjacent to the park. It aimed to mobilize collective efforts to advance the park's candidacy under UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme.

The event gathered about 80 key stakeholders, including government officials, environmental experts, local communities, and international partners. They focused on developing a comprehensive Action Plan for the sustainable management and preservation of the park.This event underscores a significant step towards integrating the park into a global network dedicated to balancing biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

The workshop highlighted the ecological and cultural significance of Nino KonisSantana National Park, Timor-Leste's first national park established in 2007. The park is a terrestrial and marine biodiversity hotspot. It is home to various endemic and threatened species and features diverse landscapes ranging from coastal zones and coral reefs to mountainous regions and tropical dry forests. The area also holds cultural significance, as it is home to indigenous Fatalukucommunities, who maintain strong connections to the land and sea through traditional practices. The discussions also emphasized the critical role of local communities in conservation efforts. Achieving UNESCO designation would not only underscore the park's global importance but also enhance collaborative efforts in preserving Timor-Leste's rich natural and cultural heritages.

The event commenced with an open seminar in Dili, featuring words from prominent figures, including Timor-Leste's Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Forestry H.E. Marcos da Cruz, and UN Resident Coordinator MsFunmi Balogun. The seminar highlighted case studies from neighboring countries, emphasizing the importance of biosphere reserves in Southeast Asia. Participants were also engaged in site visits to NKSNP to observe the park's unique ecosystems and interact with local communities. The workshop culminated in a closed technical session in Los Palos, LautemMunicipality lead by Melio de Jesus. In the technical session, key stakeholders reviewed the draft nomination form and developed an Action Plan for the park's sustainable management.

For more information on UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme please visit: https://www.unesco.org/en/mab