Forest Policy Brief 07 – Making Forestry Work for the Poor

This policy brief highlights that under Millennium Development Goal 1, Asia-Pacific governments are committed to halving extreme poverty by 2015 and many have adopted poverty-related measures in national forestry policies and programs. The high incidence of poverty in forested areas and the high dependence of the poor on forest resources suggest a leading role for forestry in poverty eradication. The document notes that achievements to date have, however, fallen short of expectations. However, by strengthening tenure, building local capacity to manage resources, providing credit and supporting livelihood development and income generating activities, the forestry sector can tackle poverty and help to achieve MDG 1.