Distinct groups of people who have collective customary tenure systems, which they govern wholly or partially under customary law, and who maintain their own political, social, cultural, and economic institutions. 

• As defined here, local communities refer specifically and solely to those groups that have collective customary systems of land and resource tenure (which includes land and resource governance). These communities’ use of customary tenure systems qualifies them to claim and exercise collective rights over their lands, territories, and resources. These rights are protected under multiple international human rights treaties and other instruments (see Annex 2 of the Operational Guidance on Respecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities.)
• Local communities as defined here are sometimes referred to as ‘traditional local communities’ or ‘traditional peoples’ and are distinct from other groups within the broader category of local communities that do not have collective customary systems of land and resource tenure. Persons that are not part of local communities with collective customary tenure systems are nevertheless rightsholders and enjoy the full set of human rights afforded to all persons under international law, as well as legal and statutory rights that may vary from place to place.
• Similar to Indigenous Peoples and tribal peoples, local communities commonly pursue traditional lifestyles; attach particular meaning to land and natural resources as sources of culture, customs, history, and identity; and/or depend on such land and resources to sustain their livelihoods, social organisation, culture, traditions, and beliefs.
• See the Operational Guidance on Respecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities for more information about the interpretation and application of this definition.