Biosphere Reserves as drivers of regional governance? Communication challenges within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserves Engiadina Val Müstair (Switzerland) and Schwäbische Alb (Germany)

Abstract

This article examines the influence of Biosphere Reserves’ (BRs) communication strategies on regional governance processes. We conducted semi-structured interviews with regional stakeholders in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserves Engiadina Val Müstair (Switzerland) and Schwäbische Alb (Germany), and evaluated the influence of the BRs’ communication strategies on regional communication structures. Our findings show that BRs can take on the role of mediators of vested interests within regional governance. In order to achieve this goal, BR managers would be advised to adopt a comprehensive communication strategy, i. e. comprising the aspects of information, participation, coordination and cooperation. This, however, is directly dependent on the BRs’ financial and human resources.