Environmental Collaboration and Conflict Resolution : Community-based Natural Resource Governance in Rural Uganda 2023 : course report

Abstract

The course was designed around community-based natural resources governance. The course was built on theoretical frameworks related to natural resource conflicts, conflict elements and analysis, conflict resolution strategies, and collaborative practices. The course participants were introduced to and interacted with different concepts such as environmental collaboration, the collaborative approach, environmental and natural resource governance, conflict resolution, interdependency, conflict mediation and consensus building, the best alternative to a negotiated agreement (BATNA) and trust building. These concepts and approaches were explained and contextualised by various facilitators during the course. The theoretical frameworks and concepts were illustrated with a field visit related to conflicts and collaboration related to tourism, nature conservation, wildlife, farming and local communities’ livelihoods. The field visit was conducted in the Bigodi Community, Western Uganda. The course also included interactive discussions, several group works and hands-on exercises in negotiation, mediation, active listening skills and trust building.