Meghalaya activist Phrang Roy seeks Indigenous voting rights at global pollinator forum

Meghalaya activist Phrang Roy, a prominent voice for Indigenous communities, has formally requested that the Global Pollinator Forum grant voting privileges to Indigenous representatives. Roy argues that the forum’s decisions on pollinator conservation directly affect traditional lands and livelihoods, and therefore Indigenous peoples should have a say in policy formulation.

The Global Pollinator Forum, an international platform that convenes scientists, policymakers and NGOs to address declining pollinator populations, currently allocates voting rights only to member states and accredited organizations. Roy’s proposal seeks to create a dedicated seat for Indigenous groups, reflecting their long‑standing stewardship of biodiversity.

In a statement released to the media, Roy emphasized that excluding Indigenous perspectives undermines the effectiveness of conservation measures. He called on the forum’s secretariat to review its governance structure ahead of the upcoming annual summit, where the issue is expected to be tabled.

Indian authorities have not yet commented publicly on the request, but the move aligns with broader governmental commitments to recognize Indigenous rights in environmental decision‑making. Observers note that granting such voting rights could set a precedent for other international bodies dealing with ecological issues.