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SECTION V
PREVENTING AND
RESOLVING CONFLICT
A.
UNDERSTANDING CONFLICT
KEY TOOLS
E-learning modules on relevant legal
frameworks
Assessing key opportunities and threats
Framework for research and action
Identifying key actors
Understanding relationships between key
actors
Forum theatre
Multi-stakeholder role play
Participatory video
Photo stories
Audio interviews
Identifying relevant social media tools
As with any human interactions, it is possible that the use of a biocultural community protocol may bring
about some type of conflict. This is more likely if underlying tensions already exist or if the protocol is
being used to address particular threats (see Box 46 for examples). Understanding conflict may help you
prevent and overcome it in practice. Conflicts are often due to differences (perceived or otherwise)
between groups or individuals, for example, differences in communication styles, in understanding of the
issues, and in expectations of the process or outcomes. Addressing these differences proactively and in
culturally appropriate ways may help you reach an agreement more effectively (see Figure 25).
Disputes over land or resource ownership and boundaries
Breaking of customary laws or local management rules such as protection agreements for grazing
areas, fish net sizes, forests, or misappropriation of funds
Disputes over the unfair distribution of work and profits, including jealousy over growing
disparities and elite resource capture
Conflict between Indigenous groups and more recent settlers or migrants
Resentment over lack of representation or participation in decision-making
Contradictory natural resource needs and values such as wildlife habitat protection or large-scale
developments versus local livelihood security
Cultural conflicts between community groups and outsiders, including from differences in
aspirations and expectations
Unwanted or inappropriate interventions and effects of NGOs or commercial companies
Box 46: Types of conflict or disputes related to natural resource management (adapted from Overseas Development
Institute, 2000)