Collaborative governance improves management effectiveness of Hin Nam No National Protected Area in Central Lao PDR

A collaborative governance model significantly improved the management effectiveness of Hin Nam No National Protected Area in Lao PDR, with a 13% increase in two years. The approach involved five key building blocks: participatory governance assessment, multi-level collaborative management, participatory zonation based on traditional knowledge and customary rights, drafting collaborative governance agreements, and engaging local people as additional management manpower. This model demonstrates potential for replication across Lao PDR's often under-managed 'paper park system,' though further work is needed to ensure adaptive management and sustainable financing.

de Koning, M., Parr, J. W. K., Sengchanthavong, S., & Phommasane, S. (2016). Collaborative governance improves management effectiveness of Hin Nam No National Protected Area in Central Lao PDR. Parks, 22(2), 27–40. https://doi.org/10.2305/iucn.ch.2016.parks-22-2mdk.en