This article analyses the historical challenges to pastoralist participation in policy dialogues, before highlighting the benefits that pastoralist participation creates, not only for their own livelihoods, but also to wider society. In addition, the mechanisms for enhancing pastoralist participation in policy dialogues are discussed; focusing on how and where to participate and the challenges that may be encountered. Success stories are also shared, with examples from conservation, market opportunities, facilitation of mobility, options for reduced conflict and improved use of technologies given.