- The Democratic Republic of Congo has vast forest resources covering 145 million hectares, but also faces political instability, poor governance, and increasing pressure on its land and forests from a growing population. - Community forestry has the potential to provide a basis for forest management in DRC. The country's 2002 Forest Code recognizes local communities' customary rights to obtain forest concessions. - Forests Monitor held consultations across DRC including 70 community dialogues, 5 local forums, 8 provincial forums, and 8 national forums to discuss community forestry and how local communities can be involved in decision making around forest management.