Responsibility, equity, justice, and inclusion in dynamic human–wildlife interactions

Abstract

In an era of rapid environmental change, human–wildlife interactions (HWIs) are increasingly complex and pervasive across ecosystems. Negative outcomes from such interactions continue to warrant much attention, given their implications for conservation and human livelihoods. However, framing HWIs solely along a coexistence–conflict continuum is overly simplistic because coexistence is not devoid of conflict and negates the temporal dynamics of potential outcomes. Furthermore, without thorough consideration of governing principles, HWIs will persistently result in negative outcomes and a skewed perspective within the scientific community and among the public. Here we argue that incorporating the principles of responsibility, equity, justice, and inclusion (REJI) into conservation-oriented activities can influence the intensity, severity, and duration of negative outcomes throughout the HWI life cycle. The conceptual framework we present both complements and expands assessment and anticipation of HWI outcomes, which are inherently contingent on scientific practice, cultural sensitivity, and interdisciplinary approaches.