Environmental management in the absence of participation: a case study of the Maldives

Abstract

This paper explores environmental assessment and management practices in the Maldives with a focus on the role of the public in environmental decision-making. As one of the world's most vulnerable states, the Maldives is undergoing rapid political, economic and environmental transformation. Yet environmental impact assessments (EIAs), and environmental policy in general, take place within a framework of limited democratic representation and participation. Thus environmental assessment is reinforcing unsustainable practices through curbing debate and information on the sources and consequences of environmental threats. While historic democratic elections in 2008 opened the door for political and social change, tensions remain between state desire for rapid economic growth, and environmental vulnerability and democracy.

Keywords:

• participatory planning
• environmental impact assessment
• sustainability
• Republic of the Maldives