African Parks, a conservation organization with which Prince Harry serves as president, is currently facing renewed scrutiny regarding its operations in Chad. The criticism, detailed in recent reports, centers on allegations of human rights abuses and the displacement of local communities in areas under the charity’s management.
Prince Harry assumed the role of president of African Parks in 2017, having been actively involved with the organization for several years prior. African Parks manages 22 national parks and protected areas across 12 countries, including Chad, with a mission to restore and manage Africa’s protected areas for the benefit of wildlife and people.
The latest wave of criticism specifically targets African Parks’ presence in Chad, where conservation efforts are reportedly clashing with the traditional livelihoods and rights of indigenous populations. Allegations include instances of park rangers, some of whom are armed and operate with governmental authority, intimidating or forcibly removing communities from their ancestral lands. Critics argue that these actions are undertaken without adequate consultation, compensation, or provision of alternative resources, leading to significant hardship for those affected.
“We have seen our ancestral lands become inaccessible, and promises of benefits remain largely unfulfilled,” stated a representative from a local community advocacy group in Chad. “Conservation cannot come at the cost of human dignity and the well-being of those who have lived in these areas for generations.”
In response to the mounting allegations, African Parks has reiterated its commitment to ethical conservation practices and its dedication to the communities residing near its managed areas. A spokesperson for the organization stated:
“African Parks is fully committed to ethical conservation practices and supporting local communities. We take all allegations seriously and are actively reviewing these claims, working closely with local authorities to ensure transparency and accountability in all our operations in Chad and across our portfolio.”
A representative for Prince Harry also addressed the situation, emphasizing the Duke’s stance on responsible conservation:
“The Duke remains a passionate advocate for wildlife and nature conservation, and for ensuring that such efforts are carried out with the utmost respect for human rights and local populations. He supports a thorough and impartial investigation into any allegations raised to ensure that the highest standards are maintained.”
This is not the first time a charity associated with Prince Harry, or conservation organizations in Africa generally, has faced criticism regarding its impact on human populations. Previous controversies have highlighted the complex challenges of balancing wildlife protection with the rights and needs of local communities. The current scrutiny underscores a growing demand for greater accountability and more inclusive approaches in the field of conservation.
As the situation unfolds, civil society organizations and international observers are calling for independent investigations into the allegations, urging African Parks and its partners to engage more actively with local communities and to implement robust safeguards to protect human rights within their conservation zones.
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