Decentralization and networks of community-based forest groups (forest federations) are often viewed as a means of promoting good forest governance that is more responsive and adaptive to local needs, especially those of the poor and underprivileged. Deteriorating forest conditions in many parts of Asia have compelled development planners and government officials to adopt these strategies. Documenting the lessons learned from such action research was a key objective of the writing workshop Decentralization and Federation to Promote Good Forest Governance, held in Chiang Mai, Thailand, between 30 June and 25 July 2003.The workshop was the tenth in a series organized by the East-West Center on Community Management of Forestlands, and the second co-hosted by the Regional Community Forestry Training Center (RECOFTC). Since 1986, the Ford Foundation and the East-West Center have attempted to document the changes taking place in the management of forests in Asia as national governments collaborate with local communities in designing win-win land management scenarios. These brief sabbaticals have engaged key actors in reflection and debate over new policies and practices, provided an opportunity for forestry practitioners to assess and anticipate these changes within their countries, and to compare their experience with other national efforts. The workshops also provide an important venue for busy practitioners to take time to document their experience for wider analysis and sharing.

Decentralization and networks of community-based forest groups (forest federations) are often viewed as a means of promoting good forest governance that is more responsive and adaptive to local needs, especially those of the poor and underprivileged. Deteriorating forest conditions in many parts of Asia have compelled development planners and government officials to adopt these strategies. Documenting the lessons learned from such action research was a key objective of the writing workshop Decentralization and Federation to Promote Good Forest Governance, held in Chiang Mai, Thailand, between 30 June and 25 July 2003.The workshop was the tenth in a series organized by the East-West Center on Community Management of Forestlands, and the second co-hosted by the Regional Community Forestry Training Center (RECOFTC). Since 1986, the Ford Foundation and the East-West Center have attempted to document the changes taking place in the management of forests in Asia as national governments collaborate with local communities in designing win-win land management scenarios. These brief sabbaticals have engaged key actors in reflection and debate over new policies and practices, provided an opportunity for forestry practitioners to assess and anticipate these changes within their countries, and to compare their experience with other national efforts. The workshops also provide an important venue for busy practitioners to take time to document their experience for wider analysis and sharing.