This report follows the path from map creation to legal victory by examining the role Indigenous maps have played within diverse litigation strategies and across global geographies. It draws on multiple case studies to ground the theory in real practice and experience, and provides practical tips and advice to communities and allies wishing to implement impactful mapping work.
One of the most significant challenges Indigenous communities face in legal contexts is conveying their deep-rooted connection to their territories and the potential impacts of external threats on their lands, cultures, and livelihoods. Maps and monitoring data can support these cases by providing concrete evidence and proof, across a range of thematic areas:
Brian Parker is an attorney based in Ecuador, where for over fifteen years he has worked alongside Indigenous Peoples and earth defenders across the Western Amazon (Ecuador, Colombia and Peru). His work centers on building equitable, resilient partnerships with Indigenous organizations and supporting them to advance their territorial rights, self-determination, and their own strategies for defending their lands and ways of life. Brian founded and led Amazon Frontlines’ legal program and, alongside the Ceibo Alliance, later directed territorial defense programs, contributing to landmark court rulings for the Waorani, A’i Cofan of Sinangoe, and Siekopai in Ecuador and Peru. In each, community-led mapping and monitoring was central to the legal strategy. Brian now works as an independent consultant supporting Indigenous rights and climate organizations, including Awana Digital.
Aliya Ryan has spent twenty-five years working alongside Indigenous Earth Defenders, focusing on land rights, mapping and monitoring issues to advance social and environmental justice and landback movements. Over the last ten years with Awana Digital Aliya has directly supported the mapping and monitoring work of the Waorani, Siekopai and A’i Cofan in Ecuador, and the Ogiek of Mount Elgon in Kenya, all of whom have used their mapping data successfully within legal cases and advocacy. Aliya’s work centers on developing methodologies that strengthen local autonomy and sovereignty over data and technology, enabling meaningful impact. Aliya also supports Awana Digital’s partnerships with Indigenous organisations, communities and their allies: building and nurturing strong relationships to ensure local needs are prioritised within the team’s technical development.
