Effects of development interventions on biocultural diversity: a case study from the Pamir Mountains

Development interventions can significantly impact biocultural diversity, as demonstrated by contrasting responses to the introduction of wheat seeds in two Pamir Mountain communities. One community maintained traditional practices, fostering reciprocal exchange and low youth outmigration, while the other adopted store-bought ingredients, abandoned grain cultivation, and experienced circular migration patterns. These divergent pathways highlight the dynamic interplay between social-ecological systems and development interventions. The study suggests that understanding these relationships can empower more effective development strategies by identifying endogenous responses to local, regional, and global changes.

Haider, L. J., Boonstra, W. J., Akobirshoeva, A., & Schlüter, M. (2019). Effects of development interventions on biocultural diversity: a case study from the Pamir Mountains. Agriculture and Human Values, 37(3), 683–697. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10460-019-10005-8