Forests play a vital role in supporting the livelihoods of communities in the Global South, providing essential resources such as food, income, medicinal plants, and vital ecosystem services. This chapter explores the interplay between forests, climate change, and livelihoods in the Global South, emphasizing the importance of local knowledge in building resilience. It equally highlights the critical role of policy in supporting adaptive strategies that empower communities and encourage sustainable forest management practices. Findings reveal that, these communities are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, which threaten forest ecosystems and the people who depend on them. Climate change-induced challenges, including altered rainfall patterns, droughts, pests, and biodiversity loss, significantly affect forest-dependent communities, exacerbating poverty and food insecurity. However, adaptive strategies like agroforestry, sustainable logging, and community-based conservation programs offer potential pathways for resilience. These strategies not only mitigate climate risks but also foster long-term livelihood sustainability by ensuring the health of forest ecosystems and promoting socio-economic stability. The integration of community-driven solutions and the promotion of equitable policies are necessary to safeguard both livelihoods and environmental sustainability. Through the prioritization of local involvement and adapting practices to changing climate conditions, forest-dependent communities can enhance resilience, protect their ecosystems, and achieve long-term sustainability.