Between Maroon Tradition and State Law in Jamaica: A Case Study of Challenges to Environmental Governance in a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Effective environmental governance in UNESCO World Heritage Sites requires integrating state laws with Indigenous cultural and legal pluralism, particularly where ethnic diversity and historical legacies shape conservation efforts. This study highlights the potential of collaborative frameworks that align conservation objectives with Maroon community aspirations and traditional practices in Jamaica's Blue and John Crow Mountains (BJCMs). By emphasizing mutual trust and knowledge exchange between state authorities and local communities, such an approach can empower Indigenous groups to protect their ecosystems while respecting their legal autonomy. The research underscores the need for regulatory frameworks that complement, rather than undermine, traditional governance structures, offering a culturally informed strategy to address environmental threats without eroding social cohesion.

Samuels-Jones, T., & Perz, S. (2024). Between Maroon Tradition and State Law in Jamaica: A Case Study of Challenges to Environmental Governance in a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Conservation, 4(2), 319–338. https://doi.org/10.3390/conservation4020021