This is a guide to diagnosing strengths and weaknesses in forest governance using a tool developed by PROFOR (Program on Forests).1 The tool consists of a set of indicators and a protocol for scoring the indicators. The indicators are in the form of multiple-choice questions about aspects of forest governance. Some cover general features of governance, some touch on specifics, and some serve as proxies for factors that are difficult to assess directly. Taken as a whole, the tool examines forest sector governance broadly, serving as a self-assessment to identify areas deserving improvement.
Recognizing that local involvement is key to successful reform, the tool’s protocol uses a workshop format, where stakeholders meet to discuss governance and try to come to agreement on scoring the indicators. Putting assessment in the hands of stakeholders promotes discussion, identifies areas of consensus, and builds momentum for change.
The tool will serve countries or their subdivisions that want to improve governance. The initial diagnosis can be a starting point from which to set priorities for reform, to target some areas for deeper study, or to track the progress of reform efforts. A convincing assessment can even contribute to the desire for reform.2
The tool is flexible, relatively inexpensive to use, and adaptable to many contexts. It can be rolled out in a matter of months (see sample timeframe, appendix I).
The indicators and protocol were field-tested in Uganda in 2010, and in 2011 in Burkina Faso (see appendix II). In addition, the Miti Mingi Maisha Bora—Support to the Forest Sector Reform in Kenya—Program used a modified version of the tool’s original framework and the program’s own consultative protocol to perform a governance assessment in 2011 (Oksanen et al. 2011), and testing was carried out in four provinces in Russia by the Federal Forest Agency with support from DFID and the World Bank. These piloting experiences have confirmed the feasibility of governance assessment and also provided feedback for improving the tool. This guide reflects the lessons learned from early testing.
The tool is open to further refinement. Users are welcome to send feedback and suggestions to PROFOR, profor@worldbank.org.