Collective decision-making and governance as well as the absence of appropriate governance structures have a tremendous impact on development processes.

The assessment of centralized as well as decentralized, functional, organizational and segmentary forms of governance arrangements is pivotal in addressing the challenges of natural resources management, including the prevention and management of conflicts. Moreover, inequality is a major concern calling for inclusive development approaches.

The sustainable use and management of natural resources are the major linking elements between this and the other research areas.

(Photo: Aline Pereira, Brazil)