This paper is a response to an IUCN internal review of the Strengthening Voices for Better Choices project, carried out in May 2007. The review recommended that a study be carried out, focusing on the process of implementation in Sri Lanka, in order to learn lessons about catalysing dialogue for improved forest governance. It is intended to serve as a learning tool for people involved in the Strengthening Voices for Better Choices project in Sri Lanka and beyond. As such, it is not a consensus document, although a broad range of stakeholders was consulted and their views have been taken into account as much as possible. Several reviewers also provided comments on earlier drafts. It is hoped that the paper will inform reflections of a similar nature in other sites within the global project, and that it will be of interest more generally to people involved in forest governance.