Abstract
The purpose of this study is to investigate whether the rationales and goals of public engagement in environmental decision-making methods are consistent with existing international agreements and recommendations. It examines whether present practices align with the ideas and principles expressed in the Rio Declaration, Aarhus Convention, Escazú Agreement, and UNEP Guidelines. Using a qualitative review of current literature, the study delves into major themes such as normative, substantive and instrumental rationales for public participation. Firstly the study tries to find out whether the current international agreements and guidelines on public participation ascribe to any of the identified themes. Subsequently, the study explores whether the observed rationales for participation in international agreements and guidelines are consistent with the current practices. The results show that the examined agreements and guidelines collectively promote normative and substantive ideas in participation processes. Although not explicitly expressed in the studied agreements and guidelines, they indirectly contribute to achieving instrumental goals of participation. Future research may look into the factors that determine the goals pursued within different participatory processes.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
PARTICIPATORY PLANNING, ENVIRONMENTAL DECISION MAKING, STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT, SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
