This chapter reviews the status and trends of tropical forest governance, how it is manifested in sustainable forest management (SFM), and what can improve it. The chapter starts by drawing attention to the development ambitions which provide a context for efforts to preserve or sustainably manage tropical forests. It then reviews a range of research on the state of governance in tropical forests, initiatives to strengthen governance, and evidence of progress or otherwise. It discusses drivers behind favoured approaches to governance, as well as limitations to fulfilment of governance ambitions, including capacity constraints and lack of integration into the fabric of tropical societies. It ends with key messages on possible ways forward.