WHO WE ARE
History
The FSC-IF is connected strategically to the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) group. FSC is a global non-profit membership organization that covers over 160 million hectares of certified forests and with a certification system connected to over 40 thousand companies over 89 countries worldwide, promoting a voluntary certification system based on the highest standards of the market.
Following its long history of working to incorporate Indigenous Peoples’ rights and Free, Prior and Informed Consent into sustainable forest management around the world, in 2013, FSC set up the Permanent Indigenous Peoples’ Committee (PIPC) to ensure that Indigenous voices are heard at the highest levels of FSC decision-making. The PIPC is a global advisory committee to advise the FSC International Board on the FSC certification system, safeguard Indigenous Peoples’ rights, enhance forest management, and support Indigenous Peoples in building FSC certified forest stewardship, increasing their market share and value.
Through a collaboration of the PIPC and the FSC, the FSC-IF was established in 2018 with headquarters in Panama to support Indigenous Peoples themselves as drivers of change for their territories, development, and rights, and their active role in forest and nature-based solutions worldwide.
Governance
The FSC-IF is an Indigenous-led global organization, governed by a Council with Indigenous representatives from around the world who is responsible to provide the strategic guidance of the Foundation and ensure that it operates in line with its mission, values, and principles.
Read the Charter of the FSC Indigenous Foundation here.
FSC Indigenous Foundation Council
Forest Stewardship Council Permanent Indigenous Peoples Committee
The Permanent Indigenous Peoples Committee (PIPC) is a global advisory committee of Indigenous representatives from all regions of the planet to advise the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) International Board on the FSC certification system, safeguard Indigenous Peoples’ rights, enhance forest management, and support Indigenous Peoples in building FSC certified forest stewardship, increasing their market share and value.
FSC Indigenous Foundation Staff
Alliances and Partnerships
At the FSC Indigenous Foundation, we believe that the path to a sustainable future is rooted in the knowledge, values, and practices of Indigenous Peoples. We elevate Indigenous Knowledge Systems as powerful tools for climate resilience, biodiversity protection, and responsible forest stewardship. We invite mission-aligned partners, funders, and changemakers to join us in this global effort. Whether through funding, technology, or strategic collaboration, your support can help preserve languages, protect ecosystems, and strengthen community-led solutions. Together, we can transform narratives, amplify Indigenous voices, and co-create a future where People and the Planet thrive in harmony.
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Careers
While we currently do not have any open job opportunities, we are always growing—and when positions do become available, we will actively share them through our official channels. In the meantime, one of the most powerful ways you can support our mission is by amplifying our voice. Share our content, spread the message, and help raise awareness about the importance of Indigenous-led climate solutions. Every post, mention, and conversation helps elevate the stories, knowledge, and leadership of Indigenous Peoples in the global movement for people and planet. Follow us and stay connected—we’d love to grow this movement with you.