Reimagining the language of engagement in a post-stakeholder world

Language matters in shaping perceptions and guiding behaviour. The term stakeholder is widely used, yet little attention is paid to the possibility that its use may inadvertently perpetuate colonial narratives and reinforce systemic inequities. In this article, we critically examine the limitations...

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Published in:Sustainability science 2024-07, Vol.19 (4), p.1481-1490
Main Authors: Reed, Mark S., Merkle, Bethann Garramon, Cook, Elizabeth J., Hafferty, Caitlin, Hejnowicz, Adam P., Holliman, Richard, Marder, Ian D., Pool, Ursula, Raymond, Christopher M., Wallen, Kenneth E., Whyte, David, Ballesteros, Marta, Bhanbhro, Sadiq, Borota, Siniša, Brennan, Marnie L., Carmen, Esther, Conway, Elaine A., Everett, Rosie, Armstrong-Gibbs, Fiona, Jensen, Eric, Koren, Gerbrand, Lockett, Jenny, Obani, Pedi, O’Connor, Seb, Prange, Laurie, Mason, Jon, Robinson, Simon, Shukla, Priya, Tarrant, Anna, Marchetti, Alessandro, Stroobant, Mascha
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Climate Change Management and Policy
Concepts
Decision making
Decolonization
Earth and Environmental Science
Environment
Environmental Economics
Environmental Management
Equity
Ethics
Inclusion
Knowledge Management for Sustainability Science
Landscape Ecology
Language
Methodology
Overview Article
Public Health
species
stakeholders
Sustainable Development
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Summary:Language matters in shaping perceptions and guiding behaviour. The term stakeholder is widely used, yet little attention is paid to the possibility that its use may inadvertently perpetuate colonial narratives and reinforce systemic inequities. In this article, we critically examine the limitations of the stakeholder concept and its ambiguity, normativity, and exclusionary implications. We emphasise the importance of using language that gives a voice to marginalised groups, promotes inclusion and equity, and fosters meaningful and reflexive participation in decision-making processes. In critiquing the use of the term and calling for alternative practices, we aim to contribute to the decolonisation of research norms and the creation of more inclusive and equitable societies. Therefore, rather than advocating a single alternative term, we suggest a focus on the people, places, and species affected by decisions, interventions, projects, and issues.
ISSN:1862-4065
1862-4057
DOI:10.1007/s11625-024-01496-4