The HKKH Partnership Project is a three year regional initiative aimed at consolidating institutional capacity for systemic planning and management of socio-ecosystems in the Hindu Kush-Karakoram-Himalaya region (HKKH). Started in July 2006, it is supported by the Italian Cooperation (MAE-DGCS) and implemented by IUCN in partnership with ICIMOD, Ev-K2-CNR and CESVI. This multi scale project is active at regional, national and local levels with a special focus on three protected areas: Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park (SNP) in Nepal, Central Karakoram National Park (CKNP) in Pakistan and Qomolongma Nature Preserve (QNP) in Tibet Autonomous Region of China.
>download the project's brochure
Based on the systemic approach, methodologies and tools to support ecosystem management are developed; a modular Decision Support Toolbox, composed by software and participatory modules, will be a key expected output. The project supports the stakeholders in the operational application of the new tools in the local level pilot areas, including the development of management plans. Implementing management oriented research and supporting partnership between national and international research organization is a core part of the capacity building intervention, which will also feature exchange visits, national and regional training programs as well as support for higher education. Introduction of international standards for data development and knowledge management will also contribute to develop trans-boundary cooperation for the management of ecosystems. GIS databases will be developed and included in the applications of the DST for the three national parks.
Facilitating the development of long term partnerships in the region is part of the project strategy to ensure long term sustainability and facilitate up-scaling of the initiative. Agreements have been developed with the main institutional counterparts in Nepal (Department of National Parks and wildlife conservation, Ministry of Forests) and in Pakistan (Northern Areas Administration) while discussion is ongoing with the Chinese Academy Science in China. So far, partnerships and agreements have been developed with over 15 stakeholders from academia, NGOs and private sector while more alliances are expected during the course of implementation.