Every day, conservation decisions are made that directly affect millions of people living in high-biodiversity areas. But whose voices and values get heard by decision-makers?
WildCRU’s Morally Contested Conservation (MCC) team investigates how different groups think about notoriously controversial issues such as hunting, punishments for wildlife crimes, and excluding people from protected areas. A key focus is hearing perspectives from people in sub-Saharan Africa.
In 2023 the MCC team collected data on these topics from over 2,200 people living in rural Kenya, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe. The team returned later in the year to discuss findings with community members – ensuring engagement with the research and that community perspectives are accurately and sensitively conveyed to local and international decision-makers.
This work helps those affected by controversial issues to contribute to decision-making, making conservation more equitable and effective.