Exchange programmes - IUCN

Implementation of an Exchange Programme for Protected Areas in East Asia
Experience suggest that risks can be reduced if there are strong support organisations.
Indeed the main reason for the success of the programme was probably the existence of
an EC-funded dedicated team workingat EUROPARC HQ to promote, support,
co-ordinate and manage it. This team contacted new protected area managers and
enlisted the support of representatives in ministries and national authorities to ensure the
continuation of the partnership. This worked well, underliningthe crucial importance of
effective communication to successful partnership co-operation.
Steps
The EUROPARC Partnership and Exchange Programme employed the following steps
when establishinga partnership:
1. Survey key stakeholders with potential interest in designing and implementing a
partnership, includingrelevant protected area authorities.
2. Assess protected areas accordingto criteria, such as the existence of a legal basis
for conservation, adequate levels of staff resources, infrastructure and communication,
as well as a willingness to assume some of the responsibility (including
costs) of activities in a long-term co-operation.
3. Ensure that relevant government authorities are fully aware of, and engaged in the
process, including the drafting and signing of long-term partnership agreements.
4. Establish a joint co-operation committee consistingof relevant protected area
managers, in order to develop and review work plans for partnership activities,
maintain communication links between partners, and evaluate the programme.
5. Establish and implement a partnership.
Organising staff exchanges
Based on its experience, EUROPARC developed a ten-point guide to assist in establishing
and organising staff exchanges (Table 2.1). Drawing on the results of a survey
completed by participants in the exchange programme, EUROPARC stresses that the
highest priority should be given to good preparation and clear objectives. Steps 1 to 5 in
particular were seen as essential in buildinga strongproposal.
Deciding which individuals should participate and the ideal length of exchange time
depends on various factors, includingthe resources available, the objectives and theme
of the exchange, the level and amount of deliverables desired from the exchange, and the
ease of communication between partners.
After a formal MOU has been signed by all parties, most of the organisation can be left
to the individuals or leaders. A work programme or itinerary is needed, together with
travel, accommodation and, in some cases, visas and interpreters. The organisation,
employer and host should decide on who will be responsible for the salary, travel
expenses and any other costs.
EUROPARC also suggested the following practical tips:
� Agencies taking part in the partnership should draft an outline programme of
activities that will achieve the objectives of the exchange. Ideally the programme
should focus on a limited number of topics. Once this has been achieved, a more
detailed plan should be prepared for each aspect of the exchange.
18