Natascha Zwaal

Narratives for Nature: Storytelling As a Vehicle for Improving the Intercultural Dialogue on Environmental Conservation in Cameroon Natascha Zwaal

In a globalizing world, intercultural communication becomes more and more important. Especially complex issues, such as environmental conservation, need careful dialogue in order to have a fruitful participation of local stakeholders. In practice, however, local people in developing countries are often confronted with western concepts and styles of communication. This book describes a research carried out during 1998-2002 on local stories and storytelling traditions in Cameroon. The aim was to get more insight in local perceptions of nature and human-nature relationships through these stories, and to compare these stories with the current ideas of western environmentalists. Furthermore, storytelling was used as a tool to improve an intercultural dialogue. By using dilemma tales the author was able to create an open and relaxed atmosphere in which local people were able to express themselves freely and share their ideas. This books aims to inspire everone who is interested in ways to improve intercultural communication. Storytelling stimulates local participation and may in the end lead to better and more sustainable solutions.