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Diagnostic Tool for Assessing Transboundary Conservation Feasibility
| Author: | Vasilijević, M., Zunckel, K., Shadie, P., Erg, B. |
| Language: | |
| Topic: | Conservation |
| Type: | Tools |
| Last updated: | 20 February 2026 |
This document is a Diagnostic Tool for Assessing Transboundary Conservation Feasibility (Version 2.1), developed by IUCN WCPA and collaborators. It is not a SADC endorsed or developed tool but can be useful in assessing the feasibility and guiding consultation when establishing a Transboundary conservation area.
The Xcel version with macros can be sourced from one of the authors being Kevan Zunkel at kevanzunckel@gmail.com .
The Diagnostic Tool for Assessing Transboundary Conservation Feasibility (Version 2.1) is a globally applicable decision-support tool developed by IUCN WCPA to evaluate the feasibility of establishing Transboundary Conservation Areas (TBCAs). It aims to guide practitioners in systematically assessing shared priorities, differences, and opportunities, fostering stakeholder consensus, and designing effective transboundary conservation strategies. The tool is designed for use by protected area managers, government officials, civil society organizations, Indigenous Peoples, and other stakeholders involved in transboundary conservation processes.
The tool consists of a structured questionnaire divided into six parts: Background and Context, Site Values and Threats, Economy, Socio-Cultural Dynamics, Governance and Management Framework, and Knowledge Management and Monitoring. It includes both quantitative and qualitative questions, with scores and descriptive responses used to evaluate feasibility. The tool also generates an automated assessment report summarizing key aspects such as ecological reasons, benefits, challenges, stakeholder roles, and capacity for cross-border collaboration. A visual traffic-light system provides a quick overview of the feasibility status.
The tool can be implemented through transboundary workshops, national workshops, or individual self-assessments, with workshops being the most effective for fostering stakeholder engagement and consensus. It emphasizes the importance of stakeholder participation, careful planning, and addressing challenges such as legal, cultural, and political differences.
The Diagnostic Tool also highlights the benefits of transboundary conservation, including ecological connectivity, enhanced ecosystem services, socio-economic opportunities, cultural linkages, and regional integration. It identifies potential challenges, such as resource disparities, political tensions, and legal incompatibilities, and provides guidance on actions to mitigate these issues.
The tool is dynamic and open to updates based on user feedback, ensuring its continued relevance and effectiveness in supporting transboundary conservation initiatives.
