An understanding of trust, identity, and power can enhance equitable and resilient conservation partnerships and processes. Issue 6 (5th April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dietsch, Alia M.; Wald, Dara M.; Stern, Marc J.; Tully, Brooke
• Is Part Of: Conservation science and practice. Volume 3:Issue 6(2021)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2021-04-05
• Subjects: collaboration -- conflict -- identity -- partnerships -- power -- processes -- trust; Biodiversity conservation -- Periodicals; Biodiversity conservation; Periodicals; 333.951605
• DOI: 10.1111/csp2.421
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2578-4854

Abstract

Abstract: Conservation practitioners regularly engage in partnerships and processes to develop and achieve important conservation goals aimed at alleviating the biodiversity crisis. These processes, and the partnerships needed for success, are subject to complex social dynamics that can result in negative outcomes if not well understood and addressed. As an illustration, a heavy reliance on authority‐based power in a conservation process could lead to alliances with some groups and alienation of others. Such ingroup/outgroup dynamics can prompt threats to one's identity and distrust of others, which may lead to disengagement or active blocking of progress toward goals (e.g., legal action). To support practitioners in addressing the biodiversity crisis, we review key concepts and theory from the literature in relation to how trust, identity, and power operate in the context of conservation partnerships and processes. We further offer a list of considerations for conservation practitioners seeking to co‐develop goals that are achievable, equitable, and responsive to the needs of diverse interests, as well as sustainable over time given shifting social and ecological conditions.