Democratic decentralization of natural resources: Institutionalizing popular participation
SUMMARY: This report presents preliminary findings and recommendations from research on natural resources in decentralization efforts around the world. The findings derive from WRI research projects in Africa and case-studies presented at a WRI conference on decentralization and the environment. All cases explore the degree to which natural resource decentralization has taken place and examines social and environmental outcomes of this process. Most cases focus on forestry, while a few deal with wildlife and water management issues. The author presents preliminary interpretations of the research and highlights key issues relevant to natural resources management in democratic decentralization processes. The main recommendations are summarized as follows: Work with local democratic institutions as a first priority;Transfer sufficient and appropriate powers;Transfer powers as secure rights;Support equity and justice;Establish minimum environmental standards;Establish fair and accessible adjudication;Support local civic education;Give decentralization time;Develop indicators for monitoring and evaluating decentralization and its outcomes.
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Democratic decentralization of natural resources: Institutionalizing popular participation
Author(s):
Jesse C. Ribot
Publication Date: 2002
Location: World
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SUMMARY: This report presents preliminary findings and recommendations from research on natural resources in decentralization efforts around the world. The findings derive from WRI research projects in Africa and case-studies presented at a WRI conference on decentralization and the environment. All cases explore the degree to which natural resource decentralization has taken place and examines social and environmental outcomes of this process. Most cases focus on forestry, while a few deal with wildlife and water management issues. The author presents preliminary interpretations of the research and highlights key issues relevant to natural resources management in democratic decentralization processes. The main recommendations are summarized as follows: Work with local democratic institutions as a first priority;Transfer sufficient and appropriate powers;Transfer powers as secure rights;Support equity and justice;Establish minimum environmental standards;Establish fair and accessible adjudication;Support local civic education;Give decentralization time;Develop indicators for monitoring and evaluating decentralization and its outcomes.
