Taking stock of REDD+: a consideration of the experiences of Fiji and Ghana

Abstract

This article seeks to understand and explain the international legal framework, Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation-Plus (REDD+), and to determine whether the implementation of this framework is too fragmented to deliver its promised benefits. The international legal framework, REDD+, is detailed, to capture the objective(s), key mechanisms and possible activities available to states and to outline the international development of the framework. The laws and policies related to REDD+, REDD+ implementation, forest sector management and Indigenous land rights are examined in two tropical states (Fiji and Ghana). The comparative analysis of the two case study states (which have not been compared previously) explores through three lenses the question of whether REDD+ implementation is too fragmented to achieve its promise: the financial implementation of the framework; the policies and laws nationally implementing REDD+; and how the drivers of deforestation are addressed by states. It is explained that, whilst there are some gaps in Fiji’s REDD+ implementation of provisions, such as comprehensive Indigenous land rights, Fiji’s national implementation of the REDD+ framework has been reasonably effective and is well-regulated by the laws and policies which have enabled the international legal framework to be integrated into Fiji’s national activities. Similarly, it is explained that Ghana’s national implementation of the REDD+ framework has been productive with laws and policies that enable proactive integration of the international legal framework into Ghana’s national activities. Nevertheless, there are lessons which each state can learn from the other – and which are of general value. It is concluded that REDD+ implementation is not overly fragmented; and that it is on track to make a significant contribution to emission reductions.