Video-mediated dialogue for promoting equity in protected area conservation

Abstract Improving equity in the context of protected areas conservation cannot be achieved situations where people have different capabilities to participate. Participatory video has potential uncover hidden perspectives and worldviews build trustworthy, transparent accountable relationships between marginalized communities external agencies. We present findings from video-mediated dialogues Indigenous peoples decision makers involved management three Guyana. films created by researchers their were screened discussed with area managers. recorded responses presented them back communities. show how process provided a rich contextualized understanding issues. It enabled recognition respect managers for lived experiences contribution values knowledge. For peoples, participatory built confidence critical reflection on own activities responsibilities whilst allowing challenge issues transparency, communication accountability. that is an evolving differing histories produce distinct outcomes over time. Thus, promoting must long-term process, enabling participation producing conditions regular, honest communications. Standardized indicators could useful reporting international targets, but dialogue can facilitate deeper understanding, greater representation rights.