Summary of Day One Discussion

A reminder of why we are here.... Possible Vision ‘Sustainable inshore fisheries, well managed using community based approaches, that provide long-term economic, social, ecological and food security benefits to our communities’

Are we heading towards our vision?

Consequences of the current trajectory Growing Population + Declining Fisheries = Major Fish Gap Consequences for coastal communities  Food Security  Livelihoods Fish gap within 15 years Melanesia 400,000,000 pieces Micronesia 40,000,000 pieces Polynesia 20,000,000 pieces

Current challenges to effective management Outdated management policy, legislation and planning Lack of information to inform management Limited capacity and resources (including human) Inadequate empowerment of local communities and links with sub-national government Lack of political will, policies, planning and support, including for sub-national govt. agencies Lack of stakeholder collaboration/connection Inadequate MCS and variable/inadequate sanctions Geographical isolation Scaling up to ensure effect management at the national scale is achieved in a reasonable timeframe

Conclusions (1) More of the same won’t do Need clear pathways to change if we are to achieve our vision These pathways need to account for a wide range of stakeholders, interests, views and systems One size does not fit all Little will happen without political will

BUT, some successes Good understanding of what does and does not work in coastal fisheries management Increasing application of CBFM and variations across the region Almost universal acceptance of CBFM as the key to managing coastal fisheries Strong support from regional agencies and NGOs

Conclusions (2) Inshore fisheries are complex and their management must Start with communities but include an appropriate role for government, NGOs and other stakeholders Be supported by re-focused fisheries agencies Utilise and build on existing cultural systems Engage multiple stakeholders and perspectives Be supported by politicians, policy and legislation And………….

Be scaled up to meet national needs