UN Mexico Highlights Sustainable Rural Livelihoods in Chiapas

As part of the Multistakeholder Dialogues toward the new United Nations Cooperation Framework in Mexico 2026–2031, UN Mexico reaffirmed its commitment to rural well-being, environmental sustainability, and food system transformation. The South-Southeast region, including Chiapas, was identified as a strategic area for international cooperation.

Local and indigenous communities in Chiapas showcased projects under the Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Gender-Sensitive Inclusive Business Networks. Implemented by the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP) with support from FAO, this initiative links environmental conservation with inclusive economic development.

The projects operate in the La Frailescana Natural Resource Protection Area in Chiapas, aiming to strengthen sustainable livelihoods through bioeconomy-based business models, gender equity, and community participation.

More than 1,700 producers, including 648 women, currently participate in this network, engaging in activities such as shade-grown conservation coffee production, beekeeping, and meliponiculture. These practices align with ecosystem protection and the revitalization of local knowledge.

One highlighted initiative, the Yutsil K’inal collective, produces agroecological coffee in hydrological recharge zones, demonstrating the development potential within protected natural areas when approached territorially. Another project, Miel FrailesCana, has developed bee-derived products and improved marketing through ongoing training and commitment.

“Conservation and social justice can walk together. When rural communities have access to sustainable livelihoods with gender equality and technical support, they become key allies in ecosystem protection,” said Lina Pohl, Representative, FAO Mexico.

The presentation occurred amid joint planning between the United Nations and the Mexican government to define shared priorities for 2026–2031. The Cooperation Framework will guide the work of 25 UN agencies, funds and programs in Mexico, focusing on environment and climate change, inclusive and resilient economy, governance and rule of law, and social inclusion and equality, with cross-cutting themes such as gender, youth, indigenous peoples, and human rights.

“We come to listen, to better understand Mexico’s priorities and community needs, and to share the experience of coordinated work among UN agencies,” said Peter Grohmann, Resident Coordinator, UN System in Mexico.