Authors: Bianca Haas, Aqorau Transform, Lennan Mitchell
Abstract
The demand for marine resources is increasing, and an increasing number of fish stocks are fully or overexploited. To turn this downward projection around, states need to strengthen the effectiveness, equity and implementation of fisheries management measures. One important component that often determines the performance of fisheries management is the capacity of the participating parties. Despite the increased global awareness regarding the need for enhanced capacity support, many coastal developing states still lack the skills and tools to implement conservation and management measures effectively. In this paper, we highlight some of the current issues in capacity building, looking at the individual, national and regional levels. We argue that capacity is a core determinant of equity and effectiveness in fisheries governance. Furthermore, we describe the potential of complementary mechanisms to provide capacity support. Specifically, we focus on the climate change regime and the Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction. Unless coastal developing states have the sustained scientific, legal, technical, institutional and financial capacity to participate meaningfully in regional fisheries management organisations, the adoption of conservation and management measures will not necessarily translate into effective or equitable outcomes.
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