Investigation of Satisfaction of Key Factors on Alternative Dispute Resolution Mechanisms for Local Communities in REDD+ Projects.

Abstract

This paper aims to analyze 10 cases of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms in REDD+ using these Project Design Documents, to remedy local communities based on two key factors observed in past development and conservation projects: (1) whether local community organizations are involved in designing or managing the mechanisms established by project proponents, and (2) whether community input is reflected in the selection of a mediator trusted by communities to facilitate the resolution process where dispute becomes serious. The results showed that there were no cases satisfying both of the factors. However, where the first factor is satisfied, the community organizations which are involved are generally existing community decision making bodies and project proponents or implementing partners are mostly community organizations. In this case, a part of the second factor is mostly satisfied. On the other hand, where the first factor is not satisfied, the community is only a receiver of the results of the project, and generally only private companies are the project proponents. In addition, in most cases the details of how community input is reflected in mediator selection are not public.