Understanding Governance in the Jaragua-Bahoruco-Enriquillo Biosphere Reserve: An Empirical Approach

Background and research aim: This paper analyses the governance in the Jaragua-Bahoruco-Enriquillo Biosphere Reserve (RBJBE), located in the southwest of the Dominican Republic along the borders with the Republic of Haiti. Methods: Construction and validation of an integrated scale of good governance and its subsequent analysis using factorial methods were carried out to identify good governance factors, and then regression analysis was performed. Results: Participation and coordination mechanisms are key factors in explaining governance of the biosphere reserve and critical factors in supporting a transition from an AINH (as if nothing happened) governance mode to good governance. Conclusion: The RBJBE operates in an AINH governance mode with opportunities to improve by promoting more qualified stakeholders' participation. It effectively facilitates interaction between stakeholders who share a diverse landscape mosaic, considering their interests, perspectives, and knowledge of natural resources. Implications for conservation: Considering the AINH governance in the RBJBE context and extending it to similar BR scenarios in Latin America and the Caribbean, one key implication focuses on implementing effective participation mechanisms and social engagement of stakeholders, as well as improving zoning and land use planning strategies linked to a more integrative landscape approach to conservation and local development objectives.