Purpose
This paper documents in brief the effects of decentralization processes on natural resources management in upland Vietnam, Laos, Combodia , Thailand and Yunnan, China at seven case study sites. It explores the relationship between changing institutional arrangements and decision-making processes and natural resources management practices. For example, It decentralization increasing the voice of communities as a whole in natural resources decision-making ? What kind of conservation and development choices are local institution making? How is decentralization changing and individual incentives for environmental protection ? In so doing, we draw out some of the implications of these changed practices for environmental and social sustainability in the uplands. The main findings are summarized in Box One. Based on these findings, the paper suggests several ways in which governments
could better use the opportunities of decentralization to improve the management of upland ecosystems and the livelihoods of people who depend on them. The comparative findings are intended to inform national, regional and international policy-makers – including aid donors in their design of and support for further reforms.