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SECTION IV
NEGOTIATING WITH
EXTERNAL ACTORS
KEY TOOLS
E-learning modules on relevant legal
frameworks
Activity monitoring table
Assessing key opportunities and threats
Framework for research and action
Identifying key actors
Understanding relationships between key
actors
Forum theatre
Multi-stakeholder role play
Legislative theatre
Participatory video
Photo stories
Audio interviews
Identifying relevant social media tools
Negotiations generally lead to a binding agreement between parties. Certain issues or situations may
require negotiation with external actors, for example:
Setting out terms and conditions to adhere to when entering the community and/or accessing
resources or traditional knowledge;
Agreeing on monetary and non-monetary benefits to be shared; or
Deciding where a development or conservation initiative can or cannot take place.
Although much can be gained through negotiation processes, communities are generally at a disadvantage
due to significant power imbalances. Be particularly careful about with whom and why you are entering
into negotiations. Take the time to find out information about the other parties involved and to consider
your community’s priorities and aims before agreeing to negotiate (see Box 45).
At what point will we feel ‘fully informed’? What do we absolutely need to know?
Who is involved in the negotiation process?
What are the other parties’ interests, priorities, rights, and responsibilities?
What is the timeframe for negotiating and making a decision?
What language will be used? Do we have access to adequate translation services if needed?
What are my community’s rights and responsibilities?
Who will represent us? How will the rest of the community provide input and feedback?
What outcomes would we like from the negotiation?
What are our ‘non-negotiables’ or ‘bottom-lines’?
How would we handle a breakdown in negotiations or a drastic shift away from our priorities?
Do we have access to legal support if necessary?
Box 45: Guiding questions for discussion