Page:Niger Delta Ecosystems- the ERA Handbook, 1998.djvu/36

Introduction ''devices, as well as techniques of direct observation, participation and discussion. When Local People partake in these activities and thus help to analyse their own systems (which is usually not done in a formalised way), a two-way learning process is enhanced. This process empowers Local People to take charge of their own situations and negotiate with outsiders from a position of strength and confidence. (Atte, as above)''

From ERA's own experience, the process of PR has five advantages in developing relationships with the communities with which it works. They are that:

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Especially as the results of PR describe the community as something valuable, special and unique.

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Recognising the worth and power of this knowledge can in itself be a part of community empowerment.

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This gives credibility to its observations.

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Where people have already made a direct investment of time and ideas into a project, they will also be more committed to its success.

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And heard by a wide audience and especially by those agencies which, for better or worse, may wish to influence it.

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