Dissertation of Mario Alberto Arauz Torres
Start: October 09
End: September 13
Nicaragua is experiencing a growing process of environmental deterioration, in which deforestation represents one of the most important factors (FIDEG, 2007: 08). Nueva Segovia used to be the home of 88% of pine forest in the country until the end of the 90´s, but presently, no more than 10% remains (GONIC, 2005: 63). This phenomenon has made a great impact in the living conditions of rural households, driving them to rain forest areas in search of employment and better agricultural land, which also represent higher pressure on the forest (Aráuz, 2007:29). Despite of having crafted several institutions aimed to improve natural resources management in general and to halt deforestation in particular, the overuse of the forest in this region has continued. Until 2005 the agricultural frontier has increased to 54,000 hectares (GONIC, 2005: 63). This research proposal aims to understand, analyse and compare the process of institutional reforms and it outcomes in the forest sector of Nueva Segovia, Nicaragua, by applying theories of institutional change.
Researcher: Arauz Torres, Mario Alberto
Advisor: Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Konrad Hagedorn
Funding: Deutscher Akademischer Austausch Dienst (DAAD)
Publications and Presentations: see