Participatory conservation? Community-based natural resource management inBotswana

This paper examines the complexities of participatory conservation through a case study of the process of participation in a government funded communi ty-based natural resource management programme in Western Botswana. The pap er argues that different stakeholders have very different views on the leve ls of participation taking place in particular projects. Furthermore local people find it difficult to voice their concerns about the environment and issues of sustainability given the power relations involved in this 'partic ipatory' process. The paper questions the accountability and motivation of the different stakeholders involved in participatory projects and suggests that implicit in the policy implementation process are mechanisms which con strain empowerment and dictate the forms of participatory conservation whic h can emerge. The paper concludes by reviewing the case study in the light of new policy developments in Botswana.