Environmental Security in Harbors and Coastal Areas

Practitioners of risk assessment (RA) and multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) typically apply their craft in contested settings. This requires a blend of high-level technical skills, combined with a clear understanding of the larger context of social, economic, and political concerns that influence problem situations. In this White Paper, we provide a review of the challenges faced by RA and MCDA practitioners involved in the management of complex environmental problems, specifically in relation to stakeholder engagement. Based on this review, six possible elements of best practice for stakeholder involvement are presented. We also provide a Directory of Tools and Methodologies which can be used by facilitators, with an indication of how each tool or methodology would be utilized to support stakeholder involvement within the context of RA and MCDA. A brief description of selected tools and methodologies that assist with the successful engagement of stakeholders in decision- making processes is detailed. The paper concludes with a discussion of key issues and future challenges.