Power, Participation, and Inclusion in Climate Resilience Projects
One of the most effective tools for stakeholder identification and mapping has been the power–benefit matrix, as it clearly shows who holds influence and who gains the most from project outcomes. Combining this with community consultation, FGDs, and key informant interviews helps uncover hidden or marginalized stakeholders (such as women’s groups or informal workers) who may not appear in formal structures but are deeply affected.
Negotiation and communication skills are essential when interests conflict. Active listening, reframing issues around shared goals, and transparent information-sharing help reduce distrust and power imbalances. Using mediators or neutral facilitators can also prevent elite capture and ensure that quieter voices are heard.
To keep collaboration inclusive and sustainable, best practices include continuous engagement rather than one-time meetings, feedback loops, participatory monitoring, and representation of women and vulnerable groups in decision-making bodies. In my community, women-led digital literacy groups were intentionally included in planning consultations rather than being treated only as beneficiaries. This not only improved project design but also strengthened ownership and long-term participation.
Overall, stakeholder engagement works best when it is iterative, inclusive, and grounded in trust-building rather than one-off consultation events.