This systematic review of the literature sought to determine if and how cultural differences were acknowledged in published academic papers addressing conservation leadership and the attributes needed for success. The review was based on the understanding that the success of conservation programs often depends on leaders being awareness of and sensitivity to cultural differences.
Fifteen papers from five different continents were identified and analyzed in relation to how they addressed conservation leadership attributes. The analysis also focused on how characteristics of four key attributes (motivating others, establishing a shared vision, effective communication and partnership building) were addressed within different cultural settings. The researchers used geographical area in which the study was set as a proxy for cultural setting.
Of the four key leadership attributes, “motivating others” was addressed most often, appearing in 80% of the papers. Related discussion included examples of community outreach and engagement. Two of the fifteen papers included a discussion about how role models were used to motivate others. Sixty-seven percent of the papers included a discussion about “establishing a shared vision;” sixty percent discussed “communication;” and forty-seven percent discussed “partnership-building.” There was very limited discussion on the importance of cultural sensitivity in relation to the key attributes for conservation leaders.
This review calls attention to the fact that research on conservation leadership tends to be highly influenced by Western thinking and often fails to address ways in which an understanding of cultural differences might impact the success of conservation projects, especially when such projects involve people of different cultural backgrounds. This is a concern that needs to be addressed in future research on conservation leadership attributes. Specific suggestions on important factors to be included in such research are offered. Recommendations for conservation leadership training are also offered. Attention to these suggestions and recommendations may broaden our understanding of what it means to be an effective conservation leader and, in the long run, improve conservation outcomes.
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