Steps towards decolonising biogeography

Abstract

Biogeography has its origins in European colonialism. The legacies of colonial relations are evident in the distribution of practicing biogeographers, the direction of flow of biogeographical data, and the language used when describing and interpreting our studies. Biogeographers can address these legacies through increasing access to research data and publication outlets, improved recognition of collaborative relationships, and critically reflecting upon how our assumptions and perspectives might perpetuate colonial attitudes. Achieving these goals will improve not only inclusivity and equity within our field but also increase the diversity of insights and validity of our findings. If biogeography is to be a truly global science then decolonisation is a collective responsibility.