Politics of Environmental Problem Solving in Developing Countries

Abstract

The purpose of this course is, to get insights in the relevance of and the dealing with ecological aspects in developing countries; to enhance the understanding of the forces, which influence ecological measures; to learn about instruments, process management, research operations and to become familiar with various approaches to analyze and influence politics.

Objective

To get insights in the relevance of and the dealing with ecological aspects in development cooperation, in developing countries and in development policy. To enhance the understanding of the forces, the components and the processes, which influence the design, the implementation and the outcome of ecological measures. To learn about instruments, process management, research operations, impediments and improvements of political environments and about multilateral negotiations and agreements. To become familiar with approaches to analyze and influence politics, looking among others at governance, social organization, legal issues and institutions.

Content

The course predominantly builds on case studies, starting from their setting and environment, specifying problems and potentials, describing procedures, illustrating the change management, discussing experiences and outcomes, successes and failures. The analysis of the cases elucidates, what was crucial in their evolution, what were key elements and interventions. Cases include specific local interventions or projects, thematic approaches, national and international policies. Linkages and interaction of the different system levels shall be highlighted. Special emphasis is given to natural resources management. Included topics are: - Land use policy: From degradation to sustainable use - Community based natural resources management, collective action and property rights, forest and pasture management - Integrated natural resources management and rural development - Pest management, ecosystem management, biocontrol, post harvest management - The Biodiversity Convention and the access to genetic resources - Biodiversity conservation and the enhancement of biodiversity - The Millennium Development Goals interactions between poverty and the environment - Poverty assessment, poverty reduction strategies - Payment of environmental services - Biofuels

Resources