Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book presents the theme of livelihood sustainability and empowerment within the context of productive conservation in Brazilian Amazonia. It provides an account of the impact of civil war on village level institutions and on rural productivity, with particular emphasis on the role of ethnicity and local reconciliation initiatives, based upon the restoration of traditional forms of governance as a new form of empowerment and livelihood sustainability. The book outlines the mould-breaking initiatives in rural development initiated at Comilla in Bangladesh and illustrates how village-based, people-driven rural development systems have evolved into systems of empowerment and sustainable livelihoods. It argues that poverty reduction and rural development are virtually synonymous in Ghana, in view of the high percentage of the population dependent upon rural production systems for their livelihood and well being.