Stakeholder coordination structure
A supervisory structure was established to facilitate the coordination between the stakeholders and the overall coherence of the process. Its members work in cooperation and join forces, and each one brings its own specialization. An international organization (in this case, IUCN) supported this initiative by preparing project documents, seeking donor funding and providing technical and administrative support. With the presence of government and non-government members side by side, it is possible to influence mangrove and small-scale fisheries conservation policies.
A coordination and dialogue structure allows the creation of a coherent coalition around a common program. This coalition defines intervention priorities and common goals. As they collaborate, their work goes in the same direction and enhances the influence of their actions and advocacy.
When working towards common goals, it is necessary to allow great flexibility to the partners’ intervention methods so that they can express their own vision. The quality of the participation and program adherence of the stakeholders depend largely on the quality and quantity of resources provided by the coordinating agency. International conservation organizations should not seek to own projects but rather develop them for the benefit of national agencies.