Training on resolving conflicts to advance sustainable forest management and restore landscapes

Abstract

Conflicts over forest resources limit the success of sustainable forest management initiatives such as forest and landscape restoration (FLR) efforts. They also impede inclusive and sustainable development that countries aspire for. Building sufficient human resources capable of effectively managing conflict by responding early and addressing the causes to turn conflicts into opportunities for positive change is therefore a priority. The Asia-Pacific Forestry Commission and the third Asia Pacific Sector Outlook Study have highlighted the need to support and invest in regional and national capacity building on conflict resolution in forestry. In response to this, this training aims to strengthen the capacity of government officers and other key actors to address forest conflicts and provide the opportunity for exchanges and learning about experiences and best practices regarding conflict management in the region. This training is implemented by FAO in collaboration with Consensus Building Institute (CBI) and the Regional Community Forestry Training Center for Asia and the Pacific (RECOFTC). CBI are conflict experts who have more than 28 years of experience in facilitation, mediation, capacity building, citizen engagement, and organizational strategy and development to solve complex social, environmental, and economic challenges. RECOFTC strives for a future where people live equitably and sustainably in and beside healthy, resilient forests. It is the only non-profit of its kind in the Asia-Pacific region and the world dedicated to community forestry. RECOFTC's entry point to sustainable and climate change solutions is community forestry. It builds capacities of communities, governments, civil society organizations and companies so local communities can sustainably manage and benefit from their forests.