Premium
The experience of ISLANDS in deploying system dynamics modeling as an integrated policy tool
Author(s) -
Deenapanray Prakash N K,
Bassi Andrea M
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
natural resources forum
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.646
H-Index - 49
eISSN - 1477-8947
pISSN - 0165-0203
DOI - 10.1111/1477-8947.12037
Subject(s) - system dynamics , conceptualization , beneficiary , stakeholder , dynamics (music) , institutionalisation , resilience (materials science) , hierarchy , computer science , process management , stakeholder engagement , regional science , business , environmental planning , political science , geography , public relations , sociology , finance , artificial intelligence , pedagogy , physics , law , thermodynamics
The ISLANDS project is implemented by the I ndian O cean C ommission using the E uropean D evelopment F und of the E uropean U nion to support the implementation of the M auritius S trategy in beneficiary countries. This paper shares the experiences of ISLANDS in deploying system dynamics modeling in five countries in the E astern and S outhern A frican and I ndian O cean R egion ( C omoros, M adagascar, M auritius, S eychelles and Z anzibar) for sustainable development planning. L essons learned regarding the design and conceptualization of the project ISLANDS , including the adoption of system dynamics modeling as an integrated assessment tool for policy planning, are discussed. Although M adagascar and Z anzibar are not defined as small island developing States ( SIDS ) in the UN S ystem, the lessons learned from these countries are applicable to all SIDS . The approach used by ISLANDS for technical assistance consists of nesting learning‐by‐doing, multi‐stakeholder processes, and dedicated capacity‐building in system dynamics modeling, as well as advocacy for the integrated modeling tool with decision‐makers. While island developing States are recognized for their inherent vulnerabilities to shocks, the adoption of system dynamics modeling helps to achieve policy‐induced resilience by exposing the challenges and constraints posed by the lack of reliable statistical data. Institutionalization of the tool is progressing well in the region.