Developing criteria and indicators for evaluating sustainable forest management: A case study in Kyrgyzstan

► Criteria and Indicators for SFM have been developed for the first time in the walnut fruit forests. ► The C&I process helped to support decision making in terms of increasing transparency, participation and power balance. ► 7 criteria and 45 indicators identified with the help of 112 experts and stakeholders. ► The MCA approach was useful in evaluating SFM strategies. ► Outcomes of the process support conclusions for further forest policy implications.