3.2 How Do Communities Organize to Negotiate from a Place of Power?

Knowing “what” to ask for in a contract is only half of the challenge. Carbon developers have experience with contract negotiations and facing off with them can be intimidating. Moreover, many communities responding to carbon developers face challenges finding common ground, fighting disinformation, and avoiding decision-making by a few elites. 

In many places, communities have responded to this challenge by organizing themselves to negotiate from a place of power. Negotiating from a place of power shifts the balance from exploitation to partnership and increases the chances for lasting unity

We have three examples of how communities have responded to project developers and found a place of power. Watch at least 2 of the 3 before proceeding. 

How do communities organize to negotiate from a place of power –  Phillipines

How do communities organize to negotiate from a place of power – Selva Alegre

How do communities organize to negotiate from a place of power – Kenya

Take a moment to look at this guide, which provides general resources about how communities can prepare for negotiations with investors. Read pages 45-48 closely. 

Discussion board

What has been the biggest challenge for your community to negotiate from a place of power? What, if any of the examples above, seem relevant to address those challenges? Please share your comment below