Effective governance of a remote marine protected area: The case of Dongsha Atoll National Park

Abstract

Many fisheries in Taiwan’s Dongsha Atoll National Park (DANP), a marine protected area (MPA), are subject to illicit fishing by fishers from countries around Taiwan. This study examined the governance of the DANP in response to this problem. We reviewed documents, conducted a field survey of the Dongsha Islands, held semistructured interviews with local interviewees, and analyzed records of automatic identification system (AIS) signals. We found that insufficient enforcement and a lack of interagency cooperation have impeded MPA governance in DANP since 2002. We proposed solutions in three areas. The first is detection: (1) participatory monitoring mechanisms and (2) an integrated monitoring, control, and surveillance system should be established to compensate for the limitations of coastal radar. This counteracts AIS manipulation and the use of motor-powered skiffs by illegal fishers. The second is response. To respond swiftly to illegal activity, target identification is crucial. Thus, the use of technological tools, such as unmanned aerial vehicles, optical imaging systems, and acoustic surveillance systems, should supplement AIS-based identification. The third is adjudication. Because most illegal fishers are not Taiwanese, the Taiwanese government can use international agreements to prosecute (and deter) illegal fishers. This study elucidates challenges in regional MPA governance.