Communication in forest policy decision-making in Europe: a study on communication processes between policy, science and the public

This dissertation brings together four studies on communication processes and information flow in forest policy decision-making in Europe. In recent years, a manifold of policy statements and scientific studies have identified several needs with regard to strengthening communication. First, the need for sound scientific information in forest policy deliberations (Paper I) and the need to improve communication between science and policy (Paper II). Second, the need for increased stakeholder and public participation in forest policy processes (Paper III). Third, the need to strengthen communication within the forest sector as well as with other sectors (Paper IV). The approaches taken in studying these needs comprise questionnaires to and expert interviews with forest policy-makers sensu lato – i.e. bureaucracy in (inter)governmental organizations, European level forest-based industries and forestry sector interest representation organizations, and forest science. It was shown that personal communication with peers is the most important source of information for forest policy-makers. The main problem for policy-makers in gathering information lies in the excess of available information, websites that are difficult to navigate through, and limited access to online journals and databases. As regard improving communication between science and policy, both actor groups feel that scientific information should be presented in shorter and easier to comprehend formats. They also stress that scientists should be involved more in policy advisory meetings and that networking (i.e. personal contact) between scientists and policy-makers should be increased. Policy makers’ willingness to involve themselves in public participation processes depends on political interests, on prior experience with public participation, and on their trust in the facilitators of the process. Findings confirm that a set of tools comprising a stepwise approach from informing the public in an attractive way, collecting information on public opinion, towards fully participatory approaches such as direct involvement in decision-making is most likely to ensure socially inclusive planning. Communication with policy-makers requires a high degree of openness, clearly explaining every phase of the process, being open about each other’s expectations, in short, by developing relationships (networks) based on mutual trust. Internal communication in the forest sector at the European (i.e. mainly EU) level is generally well developed formally as well as informally, but the desired strengthening of communication with other sectors (and the public at large) is perceived as difficult. Forest sector core actors’ ideas on external communication differ. Ideas range from an instrumental approach to image improvement; being more successful at lobbying with other sectors and high-level policy-makers; up to building long lasting relations and two-way communication processes with other sectors. This makes it difficult to come to coordinated action among forest sector actors. A more active exchange of information (networking) on best practices in forest communication between national as well as European level actors and increased coordination of communication efforts is desired.