Pro-poor governance of non-timber forest products: the need for secure tenure, the rule of law, market access and partnerships

It is now well appreciated that the sustainability and livelihood contributions of NTFPs depend upon the manner in which they are managed and governed. Yet, governance systems are complex, context specific and constantly changing, especially as markets develop. Therefore, the attributes of good governance need to be identified, along with the enabling conditions that allow them to evolve and persist. In this chapter, we review some key conditions for good and pro-poor NTFP governance, with a focus on secure rights, equitable rule of law, market access and the building of partnerships. Through examination of case studies we conclude that many of the NTFP governance challenges can be met through building partnerships.