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manner. The community should take the time to consider how to best put external actors on notice within
your local context and using appropriate modes of communication.
Putting key external actors on notice is a useful exercise because it informs them proactively of your
intentions and expectations, which can spur positive action and help prevent conflict (see Part III: Section
V). It also begins a process of encouraging accountability and transparency of key actors in the public and
private sector whose actions or inactions are affecting your community and the environment.
B.
ESTABLISHING DIALOGUE
KEY TOOLS
Framework for research and action
Identifying key actors
Understanding relationships between key actors
Forum theatre
Multi-stakeholder role play
E-learning modules on relevant legal frameworks
Participatory video
Photo stories
Audio interviews
Identifying relevant social media tools
Activity monitoring table
Biocultural community protocols are meant to catalyze
constructive
dialogue
and
collaboration
between
communities and external actors. In comparison with a
formal negotiation, a dialogue can be relatively informal and
unstructured. It can be used to share information, improve
understanding of different perspectives, and seek innovative
ways to address a common concern or fulfill a shared vision.
Working with multiple actors or stakeholders can be challenging and at times frustrating. However, it is
more likely to succeed if those engaging in dialogue approach it with a positive attitude and optimism in
the potential of collaboration.
What external actors would we like to approach to engage in dialogue?
What are their interests and personal or institutional agendas?
What are the key issues or plans that the community would like to discuss?
What are our ultimate goals or aims that we would like to achieve through dialogue?
What would be the most effective way to share our views? What are the advantages and
disadvantages of different forms of communication (for example, PowerPoint presentations, films,
slideshows, and prepared questions)?
How could we tailor our approach differently for each specific actor?
How long do we expect or would we like the dialogue process to take?
Where should we hold the dialogue? Power dynamics often shift noticeably if discussions are held in
the community or in a neutral location rather than in the other actor’s office building.
Who will participate on behalf of the community? How will the rest of the community provide input
and feedback?
How can we encourage an overall positive atmosphere and attitude that allows for creativity and
innovation?
Box 37: Guiding questions for discussion