Legal Pluralism and The Rights of Nature in The Fragile Island Ecosystem of The Galapagos Islands

Abstract

This study analyzes legal pluralism and the rights of nature in fragile island ecosystems in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, considering both the national legal framework and customary practices present on the islands. Through a qualitative approach based on the review of normative documents and ethnographic fieldwork, the paper identifies the ways in which customary law interacts with formal governance structures in marine resource management. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with national and local authorities, non-governmental organizations and community actors, as well as focus groups on different islands. The results reveal tensions, synergies, and opportunities for articulation between legal systems, highlighting the need to incorporate intercultural and participatory approaches in the protection of nature in the Galapagos. This study concludes by proposing the strengthening of effective legal pluralism that contributes to the ecological and social sustainability of the region.