| Management
Local communities can be impacted in numerous ways by changes associated with new hydropower projects. Acceptance of change depends on effective and appropriate community engagement processes and the demonstration of benefit from the proposed development. Respect for, and knowledge of, communities and stakeholders is required.
Suitable processes need to be established and accepted to achieve the on-going consultation and participation of all stakeholders and impacted communities. Affected communities must view the engagement process as being open, fair and inclusive. They need to trust the integrity of government and development participants.
Environmental, economic and social costs and benefits need to be identified, documented and disseminated in a form that is relevant and can be understood. The opportunity for communities to make an informed contribution on issues such as the identification, planning and distribution of benefits and potential resettlement options, is required. Vulnerable or minority groups, and women in particular, should have their voices heard by adequate representation.
Acceptance of change takes time, and it is important for those communities that are affected to be given sufficient lead time to consider the consequences of proposals that have been negotiated. Further, it is important that the commitments that have been made to communities are followed through, ensuring that agreed milestones and performance targets are met. |
