Multi-sectoral platforms for planning and implementation

Abstract

Multi-sectoral platforms are processes which often become institutionalized bodies drawing together multiple stakeholder representatives from different sectors to make decisions. They are convened to harness the benefits of collaboration in tackling planning problems that span more than one sectoral jurisdiction and therefore require a co-ordinated response in policy formulation and implementation. Examples include platforms to address planning issues around climate change, food security, biodi versity conservation, timber legality and so on – many of which have nested processes from international level right down to local level. The improved participation, transparency and accountability they embody is seen as best practice in governance of forest and farm landscapes. They are often therefore invoked in the design or reform of policy processes that span multiple sectors. In addition, they are particularly useful when problems spill into more heated conflict, when power imbalances re quire redress, when broader consensus or innovation are needed and when there are significant collaborative efficiencies to be had in tackling problems of a substantial nature. Forest and Farm Facility Working Paper 2