An evaluation of the perceived effectiveness of international instruments for sea turtle conservation

Abstract

The migratory nature of sea turtles makes international cooperation critical for their survival. However, the degree to which international instruments have promoted conservation of sea turtles remains unclear. This paper aims to be a starting point for the evaluation of existing instruments. The objective of this study was to assess if existing instruments had contributed significantly and beneficially to sea turtle conservation and management. For this purpose, the awareness and perceptions of effectiveness of international instruments among sea turtle biologists and conservationists were evaluated. International instruments were defined as “effective” if sea turtle researchers believed that instruments that applied to their population(s) had successfully promoted conservation based on the design and goals of the agreement. A questionnaire comprising nine questions was distributed to people working on various aspects of sea turtle biology and conservation. Thirty‐five responses were compiled, of which at least 60% represented the Atlantic and Caribbean. Most respondents (83%) were aware of some international instrument that applied to their population, with 2.5 instruments cited on average. The overall conclusion was that few international instruments had been truly effective for sea turtle conservation. Reasons for perceived ineffectiveness of international instruments are discussed. It is recommended that non‐governmental organizations play a greater role in promoting and implementing international instruments. Sea turtle biologists and conservationists need to be far better informed on this issue.