THE STRATEGY DEVELOPMENT PARTICIPATION OF PARTNERSHIPS NETWORK IN ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION FUND IN BOLIKHAMXAY PROVINCE, LAO PEOPLE'S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC

The objectives of this research were 1) to study the Participation of Partnerships Network in environmental Management (PPM) for the Environment Protection Fund in Bolikhamxay Province, Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), 2) to formulate a strategy on PPNEM for EPFN in Bolikhamxay Province, Lao PDR that can be implemented, and 3) to develop a manual for putting into action the strategy for Participation of Partnerships Network in environmental Management (PPM) for the Environment Protection Fund in Bolikhamxay Province, Lao People's Democratic Republic. The study utilized mixed qualitative and quantitative research methods and it was carried out in 3 phases: phase 1 research focused on studying the 5 elements of the participatory process and their importance by using the quantitative analysis method. A set of questionnaires identifying 5 elements with 5 levels of importance ranking was developed and sent to a sample group comprising 255 members of the EPFN in BKX. The correctness and appropriateness of the questionnaires were confirmed by 5 technical experts in the participatory process. Results from the respondents were analyzed using SPSS and were presented in the forms of frequency, percentage, average, and standard deviation. Phase 2 research focused on the development of a strategy on PEM which comprises 2 steps. Step 1 is the preparation of a draft strategy on PEM using SWOT analysis and discussion through workshops with a sample group of 15 staff from international and national agencies.