POLICY AND GOVERNANCE DIMENSIONS OF SUSTAINABLE FOREST MANAGEMENT: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE REPUBLIC OF SERBIA AND ROMANIA

Abstract

This study provides a comparative assessment of the newest policy frameworks and practical implementations of sustainable forest management (SFM) in Romania and the Republic of Serbia. Both countries share similar biogeographical conditions shaped by the Carpathian Mountains and Danube Basin but differ in institutional frameworks and levels of European Union (EU) integration. The research used a comparative, analytical, and normative approach, drawing on national forest inventories, FAO and UNECE reports, and national legislation to assess forest structure, ownership, afforestation and regeneration trends, policy implementation, and measures addressing illegal logging. The findings indicate that Romania’s forest cover consists predominantly of natural high forests (94.7%), whereas in Serbia, most forest stands are classified as coppice formations (65.17%). Romania exhibits greater institutional and regulatory coherence, supported by EU mechanisms such as SUMAL 2.0 and updated forestry legislation (Law no. 331/2024), which enhance transparency and monitoring. Serbia’s framework, constrained by outdated legislation (Law on Forests, 2010), limited enforcement, and weak monitoring systems, is improving through gradual policy harmonization and international projects support. Both countries continue to face challenges related to illegal logging, fragmented ownership, and low community engagement. The paper concludes that achieving sustainable progress in forestry requires adaptive policymaking, technological modernization, and stronger institutional cooperation to align national governance with European and global sustainability standards.