Why They Cannot Work Together: A Study of the Co-Management of Natural Resources with Indigenous People in Taiwan

This study explores the reasons for the failure to establish co-managed protected areas (CMPAs) in Taiwan despite supporting legislation being in place since the early 2000s. The study adopts qualitative research methods to examine the case of the proposed Lumpi CMPA, in which the local indigenous people failed to persuade the government's district forest-management authority to designate a natural protected area under co-management arrangements in accordance with legislation. The study finds that insufficient motivation and its concerns about loss of control over forest management caused the district authority to snub the proposed co-management arrangements with the indigenous people. Although a legal basis for co-management clearly exists, it is apparent that Taiwanese authorities can avoid the intention of the legislation by administrative maneuvers. The study conchides that a combination of greater political will and more comprehensive legislation is required if CMPAs are to be established in Taiwan.