REDD+ Conflict: Understanding the Pathways between Forest Projects and Social Conflict

A growing body of literature analyses the conflict implications REDD+ (Reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries). However, way these conflicts unfold is little understood. We address this research gap through following question: What are pathways that connect projects between local communities other actors? review 242 scientific articles, selecting eight allow us to trace how unfolded. draw on a political ecology perspective conceptualize ‘conflict pathway’ as an interaction key events drivers leading conflict. find six main drivers: (1) injustices restrictions over (full) access control resources; (2) creation new governance structures change relationships stakeholders forest; (3) exclusion community members comprehensive project participation; (4) high expectations not met; (5) changes land tenure policy due migrants, (6) aggravation historic conflicts. Evictions forests, acts violence, lawsuits among contributing pathways. To prevent them, rights, livelihoods, benefits need be placed at centre projects.