Developing resources in a decentralizing country requires sustainable community development to promote synergies between corporate initiatives and local government goals.
A simple idea, but difficult to implement, is explained very well in this article from the October issue of E&P magazine, a publication covering the upstream oil and gas industry.
Working with local government and community leaders whose values, decision-making processes, and interests may differ from corporate approaches and priorities is challenging. However, showing respect for the local priorities and concerns and taking time to develop grassroots, site-specific approaches to development usually result in more meaningful sustainable development initiatives.
While this article focused on oil and gas and Indonesia, the message is equally applicable to other industries and countries, even if decentralization is not a trend.
