Ancestral domain

Ancestral domain refers to the specific land and natural resources that indigenous communities have historically occupied, used, and managed over generations. It encompasses their cultural, spiritual, and social connections to the land, recognizing their ongoing rights and responsibilities. This concept emphasizes that these communities have legitimate claims to their traditional territories, which are integral to their identity and way of life. Acknowledging ancestral domain supports their right to self-determination, sustainable resource management, and protection from displacement or exploitation.