Sacred Natural Sites: Ancient Values and New Challenges for Nature Protection Policies

Abstract

In recent decades, a new topic has been gaining visibility in the international discussions on nature protection strategies - sacred natural sites. However, in most countries of the world, the knowledge on this subject is limited and the initiatives for  inclusion of this theme in national public policy are still incipient. The recognition that many of these areas have been under pressure and threat has alerted researchers and international organizations to the importance of promoting strategies to protect sacred sites. However, it is important to understand how this subject has been interpreted in the context of global public policy and the trends of this debate in order to enable international guidelines to be reflected in concrete actions of sites management in their local contexts. To deepen this reflection, this paper critically contextualizes the international view and ways to recognize and safeguard sacred natural sites, notably in relation to nature protection strategies. The analysis was developed through the interpretation of worldwide agreements with this purpose, based on bibliographic and documentary research. The complexity of this debate is outlining a number of challenges to be overcome in order to manage protected areas. It should inspire new ways of viewing the inseparability between society and nature; and rescue the sacredness of this relationship.