For Environment, Democracy and Livelihoods
The debate on forest sector governance has become more intense within the federal structure due to the lack of clarity in the use and responsibility to conserve forests, carbon services and biodiversity among the three tiers of government. Against this backdrop, the Ministry of Forests and Environment, Federation of Community Forest Users Nepal (FECOFUN), with the support of FFF (Forest and Farm Facility) and in collaboration with ForestAction Nepal and RECOFTC, organised a two-day Policy Dialogue on 19th and 20th December 2024 focusing on “Transforming the Role of Community Forests in the Context of a Shift in Socio-Political Priorities, Growing Economic Opportunities and Climate Change.” The objective of this policy dialogue was to focus on fostering an inclusive discussion on the evolving role of community forests in addressing sociopolitical dynamics, driving economic development through sustainable livelihoods, and enhancing community resilience to climate change through adaptation and mitigation activities.
Four different sessions including a presentation and panel discussions were held. Out of the them, Dr. Naya Sharma Paudel from ForestAction presented and moderated the panel discussion on “Policy framework and governance restructure enabling community forestry in socio-political transitions.” The session focused on the evolving socio-political dynamics of community forestry (CF) and the challenges they pose, such as declining community engagement, institutional inefficiencies, and tedious policies. Panelists highlighted the importance of simplifying policies, and ensuring equitable financial benefits while addressing legislative delays and fostering effective governance across all tiers of government.
Overall, the two days policy dialogue brought different stakeholder together to invest and discuss on necessary strategic interventions which will propel the effects and impacts of previous interventions to larger areas, and producer groups and organisations.
