Stakeholder Dialogues in Natural Resources Management Theory and Practice

摘要

Regarding stakeholder dialogues (SDs) one often finds two extreme positions: Enthusiasts argue that SDs are the key to solving resource problems and should be made an indispensable part of every research and development project. Others consider such dialogues a waste of time. The edited volume 'Stakeholder Dialogues in Natural Resource Management' shows that both positions are wrong: SDs are indeed a waste of time if they are implemented in a top-down-manner. However, they can be valuable in solving conflicts if committed key stakeholders initiate a trustworthy dialogue and are interested in tangible outcomes. Regarding the integration with scientific work, this book makes a strong point that scientists should participate in SDs and that they can also benefit from it. Scientists have tools like, e.g. GIS and models, which may provide important input into SDs when discussing policy options. In turn, the feedback that scientists receive and the problem related knowledge of stakeholders will allow scientists to improve their tools.