A report by the Forest Peoples' Programme (FPP) criticizes the REDD forest-emissions reduction process in Cameroon for its perceived lack of measures to protect and benefit forest communities (Nature 472, 390; 2011). It is premature to cry foul at this point as the process has yet to start.

The conservation group WWF and its partners recognize that indigenous and local communities' rights will be strengthened by including them in national REDD programmes, ultimately putting management of their lands back in their hands. Hence a pre-meeting has already been held for indigenous peoples. With its knowledge of social safeguards, the FPP's contribution will be valuable to this process.

The WWF is set to undertake a REDD pilot project in the Ngoyla–Mintom region, where the indigenous Baka people are crucial rights-holders and full participants in determining the future of this 1-million-hectare forest. The WWF believes that such efforts will help to establish successful national REDD programmes and to ensure that the forests on which these communities depend are maintained.

Much work lies ahead to deliver REDD's promises on climate, biodiversity and people's well-being. But it should not be declared a failure before it starts.