A policy mix for achieving ambitious goals on forest landscape restoration: Analyzing coherence and consistency in Ethiopia forest-related policy

Musse Tesfaye, Jude Ndzifon Kimengsi and Lukas Giessen

Land Use Policy, 2024, vol. 144, issue C

Abstract: Forest Landscape Restoration (FLR) is globally recognized for the restoration of diverse forest ecosystem services across extensive landscapes. Many studies have emphasized the importance of cross-sectoral policy alignment. However, current initiatives aimed at restoration face obstacles due to fragmented management structures across different sectors. This study argues that bridging this gap necessitates a deeper understanding of policy mix elements and their characteristics. This involves scrutinizing policy instruments in various domains to gain insight into complex policy design problems. Using Ethiopia as a case, we identified four sectoral policies due to their relevance to FLR. Within these policy domains, a total of 11 major goals and 46 instruments were identified. We employed a methodological approach known as the Cross-Impact Matrix (CIM) to analyze the interaction between goals and instruments as a specific characterization of the policy mix in FLR-related policies. The results reveal varying levels of coherence based on 121 interactions among eleven goals in the CIM. Additionally, the consistency of instruments was analyzed through 2116 interactions among 46 instruments. As a result of these interactions, specific regulatory instruments, like the acquisition and use of agricultural land, negatively impact FLR efforts by introducing the risk of overlapping and insecure land use rights, including those related to the 2018 Forest Development, Conservation, and Utilization Proclamation and others. This overlap potentially creates challenges when implementing other policy instruments that support FLR. On the other hand, the REDD+ policy creates a positive and conducive environment for implementing other instruments. In conclusion, this paper underscores the importance of considering the complex nature and dynamics of real-world challenges in shaping the policy mix for FLR.

Keywords: Forest policy; Forest ecosystem services; Cross sectoral integration; Policy integration; Cross-Impact Matrix (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:lauspo:v:144:y:2024:i:c:s0264837724001674

DOI: 10.1016/j.landusepol.2024.107214

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