Commons Becoming Non-Commons in the Efforts for Reconciliation between Conservation and Livelihoods: A Case Study of Northern Pakistan

Abstract

"The paper examines the impact of converting commons into protected areas on the community resource management system in <i>Shimshal</i>, northern Pakistan. We explored into three main questions in this regard. First, what happens to community resource management under strict government control of the resource? Second, what has happened to the centuries-old practice of the traditional yak herding system of the <i>Shimshal </i>community as a result of new policies regarding protected areas? Third, can the community retain control of the protected area (state property), and how can we conceptualize it under the property regime? The research draws the following three conclusions: (1) a clear divide exists between the local government and the community on resource management and resource use, (2) the <i>Shimshal </i>community relies significantly on yaks for their livelihood, and the imposition of new rules and regulations in protected areas has significantly altered the <i>Shimshal </i>communitys traditional yak herding practices, and (3) community control over resources in protected areas would be a new experiment under the state property regime. The study concludes that it is possible to bridge the gap between what have been regarded as irreconcilable principles of protected areas and livelihoods. This arrangement needs to be contextualised by giving specific importance to the community and their management practices. In the case of <i>Shimshal</i>, one of the promising ways to sustain the traditional yak herding practices of the community would be to restore their access and user rights, and allow them to manage their natural resources in collaboration with other public institutions. The state would achieve its conservation goals by monitoring the local communitys activities and ensuring that their livelihoods and conservation efforts do not negatively affect each other. This will reduce conflicts between the government and the community and simultaneously lead to the effective conservation of local natural resources."