United Nations Declares 2024 as the International Year of Camelids

Introduction: A Global Recognition of Camelids’ Significance

In a move highlighting the crucial role of camelids in the lives of people worldwide, the United Nations has declared 2024 as the International Year of Camelids. This decision aims to spotlight the diverse contributions of camelids, including alpacas, Bactrian camels, dromedaries, guanacos, llamas, and vicuñas, in promoting food security, nutrition, and economic growth, particularly for Indigenous Peoples and local communities.

Understanding Camelids: Guardians of Livelihoods

Influence Across 90 Countries: According to the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), camelids impact the lives of millions of households in over 90 countries. Their diverse roles extend beyond being mere animals; they are integral to the fabric of societies globally.

Diverse Group of Camelids: Camelids encompass a diverse group, including alpacas, Bactrian camels, dromedaries, guanacos, llamas, and vicuñas. Each species plays a unique role in sustaining communities and ecosystems.

Camelids and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): A Holistic Contribution

Source of Nutrition: Camelids serve as a vital source of milk and meat, contributing significantly to the fight against hunger and malnutrition.

Fibre for Clothing and Shelter: The fibres derived from camelids find use in clothing and shelter, aligning with sustainable practices and supporting livelihoods.

Transportation and Agriculture: Camelids serve as reliable means of transportation and providers of organic fertilizer, enhancing agricultural practices in various regions.

Adaptability to Harsh Conditions: Thriving in challenging conditions, camelids prove to be resilient and adaptive, making them invaluable in diverse ecosystems.

Impact on Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities

Highlands of Andes and Arid Lands: In the highlands of the Andes mountain ranges and arid and semi-arid lands in Africa and Asia, camelids play a pivotal role in the livelihoods of the inhabitants. Their presence is crucial for the sustainability of these unique ecosystems.

Ambassadors for Climate Change Awareness: Camelids, as resilient beings surviving in harsh conditions, become ambassadors for raising awareness about climate change. Their experiences and adaptations can serve as powerful tools in understanding and addressing environmental challenges.

Objective of the International Year of Camelids 2024

Building Awareness: The primary objective of the International Year of Camelids 2024 is to build awareness of the untapped potential of camelids. By doing so, it aims to shed light on the multifaceted contributions of these animals to various aspects of human life.

Advocating for Investment: The declaration calls for increased investment in the camelid sector. This includes advocating for greater research, capacity development, and the use of innovative practices and technologies to further enhance the contributions of camelids.

A Call for Action: The year 2024 serves as a call to action, urging global communities, governments, and organizations to recognize and harness the potential of camelids in creating sustainable and resilient societies.

Important Questions Related to Exams

1. Why has the United Nations declared 2024 as the International Year of Camelids?

Ans. The United Nations has declared 2024 as the International Year of Camelids to spotlight the diverse contributions of camelids, such as alpacas, Bactrian camels, dromedaries, guanacos, llamas, and vicuñas. This move aims to emphasize the crucial role of camelids in promoting food security, nutrition, and economic growth, particularly for Indigenous Peoples and local communities.

2. What are camelids, and why are they considered guardians of livelihoods?

Ans. Camelids are a group of animals that includes alpacas, Bactrian camels, dromedaries, guanacos, llamas, and vicuñas. They are considered guardians of livelihoods because of their diverse roles, impacting millions of households in over 90 countries. Their contributions go beyond being mere animals, playing an integral role in the fabric of societies globally.

3. How do camelids contribute to climate change awareness?

Ans. Camelids, being resilient beings surviving in harsh conditions, become ambassadors for raising awareness about climate change. Their experiences and adaptations serve as powerful tools in understanding and addressing environmental challenges.

4. What is the main objective of the International Year of Camelids 2024?

Ans. The primary objective is to build awareness of the untapped potential of camelids. By shedding light on the multifaceted contributions of these animals, the initiative aims to highlight their importance to various aspects of human life.

5. How can individuals, governments, and organizations contribute during the International Year of Camelids 2024?

Ans. The declaration calls for increased investment in the camelid sector, advocating for greater research, capacity development, and the use of innovative practices and technologies. The year 2024 serves as a call to action, urging global communities to recognize and harness the potential of camelids in creating sustainable and resilient societies.