This Handbook incorporates the Resolution and annexed Guidelines as well as the Resource Paper. It is intended to provide an easily accessible reference text on the implementation of participatory approaches in the context of wetland management. While it is primarily intended for Ramsar Contracting Parties, and particularly those government ministries or agencies charged with wetland management, it will also be of value to anyone interested in establishing or strengthening local and indigenous people’s participation in wetland management. The Guidelines in Section I provide a summary overview of the major lessons learned from participatory management experiences around the world and the various steps in developing and implementing participatory approaches. The Resource Paper in Section III covers the same subject matter in greater depth. Both sections make full use of selected case studies on successful local involvement. Readers should be aware that new experiences in participatory wetland management are being documented regularly. The wealth of material, together with the breadth of participatory management experiences, makes it impossible to provide a definitive text on this subject. Rather, this should be seen as a work in progress.