Civil Society and Forest Governance in Southeast Asia: Towards an Alternative Model in Addressing Transboundary Forest-Related Conflicts

Abstract

"This paper inquires into, and offers models about, the potentials of civil-society based processes and structures in fostering regional and global cooperation, and in the promotion of human security and the prevention of conflict among states. The inquiry is located in the environmental domain, particularly in the security implications of the problem of transboundary illegal forest products trade in the Greater Mekong Sub-region. As an exploratory study, the paper looks into the historical antecedents as well as contemporary examples of civil society participation in conflict resolution. It also explores the role which civil society plays in the promotion of alternative concepts of security to serve as impetus for policy change not only within states, but also across and between states in the arena of diplomacy, and in the promotion of social welfare and development. The focus on forests in Southeast Asia is warranted by the growing importance of environmental concerns in security discussions, as well as the strategic importance of the region."