Governance and Power Dynamics in a Small-Scale Hilsa Shad (Tenualosa ilisha) Fishery: A Case Study from Bangladesh

Mohammad Mojibul Hoque Mozumder,Mohammad Mahmudul Islam,Simo Sarkki,Aili Pyhälä,Md Abdul Wahab,Petra Schneider

doi:10.3390/su12145738

Abstract

This paper considers the hilsa shad (Tenualosa ilisha) fishery of southern Bangladesh as a case study regarding governance and power dynamics at play in a small-scale fishery, and the relevance of these for the sustainable management of coastal fisheries. Qualitative methods, involving in-depth individual interviews (n = 128) and focus group discussions (n = 8) with key stakeholders in the hilsa fishery, were used to capture multiple perspectives on governance from those in different positions in the relative power structures studied, while facilitating insightful discussions and reflections. The analysis here is based on a power cube framework along three power dimensions (levels, spaces, and forms) in Bangladesh’s hilsa fishery. The study displays an imbalance in the present hilsa governance structure, with some stakeholders exercising more power than others, sidelining small-scale fishers, and encouraging increasing illegal fishing levels that ultimately harm both the fisheries and those dependent on them. To overcome this, we propose a co-management system that can play a vital role in equalizing power asymmetry among hilsa fishery stakeholders and ensure effective hilsa fishery governance. Our results suggest that recognizing analyzed power dynamics has substantial implications for the planning and implementation of such co-management and the long-term sustainability of the hilsa fishery.

Highlights

Small-scale fisheries (SSFs) are defined in multiple ways
Secondary information on governance and power structures in the hilsa fishery were collected from newspapers and study reports issued by NGOs and local universities working with the small-scale fishery” (SSF) in the coastal areas of Bangladesh, and from associated legislation issued by the Government of Bangladesh (GoB)
The presentation of the main findings of our research is structured as follows: first, an overview of the main issues that emerged from the power cube framework exercise (Figure 1): levels of power and distribution, spaces of power, and forms of power

Summary

Introduction

Small-scale fisheries (SSFs) are defined in multiple ways. The interchangeable terms generally associated with SSF, such as “artisanal”, “local”, “coastal”, “traditional”, “small”, “subsistence”, “nonindustrial”, “low-tech”, and “poor”, are indicative of the many values and characteristics underpinning the definitions [1]. An Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management (EAFM) links fisheries management across jurisdictions and boundaries, helping to gain political and stakeholders’ buy-in to fisheries [61]. It further increases support for better governance that can lead to better compliance and enforcement [62]. A transboundary initiative for developing a common management policy for hilsa fisheries should be promoted. Such transboundary efforts would help build better governance and a non-exploitative, balanced power dynamics in all three countries for the wellbeing of fishers and ecosystems. Joint fishing bans should be coordinated and implemented at the same time in all three countries

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion