| "As part of our work to finalize a Country Assistance Strategy with the Government of Cambodia, the World Bank is looking at ways to increase the effectiveness of our work in the forest sector. The only reason to remain engaged is if we believe we can be effective. Our engagement in the sector so far has been difficult and frustrating, and while some positive things have been achieved -- a significant reduction in the area under concession, and initial disclosure of concession plans, for example -- many serious problems remain, including continuing illegal logging, corruption, and a lack of meaningful engagement of local people in forestry decisions affecting their lives.
"The Country Assistance Strategy highlights two elements of our work that will receive special attention in the coming years: partnership with others, and improved governance. We recognise that with good partners -- including local organizations and other donor organizations -- we will achieve maximum progress, in forestry and other areas. We also recognise that without improved governance -- including more transparency, an enforceable legal framework, and improved monitoring and oversight -- we are not likely to overcome the obstacles posed by corruption and a lack of capacity.
"We see bringing effective transparency, enforcement, monitoring and accountability to forestry management as one of the toughest challenges in Cambodia. We know that this can only happen if we build on those successes that have been realized in working effectively with local communities. At the same time, we will work with others to identify clearly the nature and costs of abuse of public power for private gain in management of forest resources. Fundamentally, any progress will depend on the willingness of the Government to confront these issues and take further credible steps to improve the governance of forest resources. The Independent Forest Review provides a basis for a constructive dialogue on how all stakeholders can move forward. We are committed to supporting this process, just as we are committed to turning our new Country Assistance Strategy, with its emphasis on governance and partnership, into credible actions in support of better forest management.
We look forward to reporting back further when the new approach is more advanced. "
Peter L. Stephens
World Bank Singapore Office
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