Weex dunx and the quota: Plucking local democracy in Senegal

Abstract

Created after extensive research into the commodity chain of charcoal in Senegal, this educational video showcases how policy reform in Senegal failed to deliver on its promise to allow forest peoples to benefit from their natural resource. While a 1998 law gave community leaders "veto" power over whether or not outside patrons could harvest from community forests, the video demonstrates how the forest service and charcoal patrons have colluded with one another to pressure these community leaders to sign harvesting orders despite the wishes of their communities. This video complements a speech and working paper from WRI on how Senegalese reform failed to provide promised benefits for the people.