Human dimensions of marine protected areas and small-scale fisheries management: A review of the interpretations

Abstract

Scientists and managers increasingly recognize the need to address the human dimensions (HD) of planning and managing marine systems, but it remains unclear what these dimensions entail. This paper presents an analysis of the state of the art of interpretations and uses of the term HD in the context of marine protected areas (MPA) and small-scale fisheries (SSF). Based on previously established descriptors, including the coexistence of MPAs and SSFs, we conduct a literature review of 92 peer-reviewed papers. Thirty-five components of HD are categorized into five categories: governance, economic, cultural, political and social. Despite multiple interpretations, the notion of HD has a specific meaning that involves attitudes, perceptions, beliefs and preferences and indicates different human uses and compliance (or lack of compliance) with conservation rules. We find that the number of papers published per year has generally been increasing, and most papers are found in journals related to natural sciences. The low incidence of these studies in human and social science journals may generate an imbalance since themes such as gender or poverty, are scarce. Overly narrow conceptions can create blind spots that reinforce command and control approaches despite the emergence of holistic approaches. Despite the inevitable overlap among some themes, these 35 components of HD can be used as variables and as a starting point to guide managers and researchers. A precise definition of HD and its components can also support the embodiment of international guidelines, policies and management regulations into decision-making arenas and management tools.