These Guide lines explore protected area approaches and models that see conservation as fully compatible with human communities – as managers, decision-makers, residents, users, caretaking neighbours – and that regard such communities as an asset to conservation rather than a liability. Drawing on recent experience and best practice from around theworld, as well as from reflections and guidance developed at the local, national, regional and international levels, these Guide lines offer considerations, concepts and ideas. They do not prescribe blue print solutions, but offer a menu of options for action, to be reviewed by the concerned actors and adapted to their circumstances.