Stakeholder Analysis for the Sundarbans Resilience Project (SRP)
In the SRP, government agencies and international donors hold the most influence, as they control funding, policy approvals, and overall project direction. Local communities, however, benefit the most directly, gaining protection from climate impacts and improvements to their livelihoods.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Bangladesh Forest Department, Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, international donors, and the national SRP Project Steering Committee fall into the “Manage Closely” category. They play a central role in providing policy guidance, allocating resources, and coordinating activities. Their decisions are critical to project success.
Other national ministries and central regulatory agencies are in the “Keep Satisfied” quadrant. They hold authority over budgets or frameworks but are less involved in day-to-day project activities. Engaging them adequately prevents political delays or resistance.
Local communities, local NGOs and civil society organizations, community leaders, and local government authorities are “Keep Informed” stakeholders. While they lack formal power, their cooperation is essential for adoption of alternative livelihoods, compliance with conservation rules, and the success of mangrove restoration efforts. Their influence comes from their ability to determine whether project interventions are accepted and sustained.
Academic and research institutions, independent monitoring groups, and media outlets fall into the “Monitor” category. They contribute data, research, and awareness but do not directly shape major decisions or community behavior.
Power imbalances are evident. Despite being primary beneficiaries, local communities often have limited formal decision-making authority, and marginalized groups within these communities; such as women, the elderly, or forest-dependent households may be overlooked. Ensuring participatory engagement is crucial for project success.
I determined the power and influence of each stakeholder by considering who controls resources, funding, and decision-making versus who is most affected by the project outcomes. Influence also includes the ability to shape priorities or block initiatives, while benefits indicate who stands to gain the most.
There are NGO's which also engage in conducting research into how the depletion of Mangrove forests is affecting communities and families. Their output is used, to some extent, in shaping the policy.