The Virunga Volcanoes and the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: cooperation in the management of shared natural resources and the concept of Transboundary Protected Areas

The Virunga Volcanoes and the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: cooperation in the management of shared natural resources and the concept of Transboundary Protected Areas

Description

This case study explores whether and how public international law could contribute to a more effective protection of the natural habitat of the mountain gorilla.

Based on the idea that cooperation is the key to successful conservation of these shared natural resources, this paper elaborates on the concept of Transboundary Protected Areas, sometimes called 'International Peace Parks'. It explores the international legal context, legal mechanisms and legal framework regarding the establishment of such a Transboundary Protected Area.

Cooperation in the Virunga-Bwindi region is not easy however, as the countries involved share a history of violence. The case study concludes that the political difficulties between the states can be addressed by a Transboundary Protected Area. These forms of cooperation open up political and jurisdictional boundaries and pave the way for negotiations and dialogues involved on matters of national security and peace.

Information

Author(s)
Bronkhorst, Serge
Publisher
Institute for Environmental Security
Place published
The Hague
Date / journal vol no.
October 2005
Pages
26

References