Year-end Sale % OFF 
Abstract
Scientists have recorded the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on small-scale fishers (SSFs), such as stagnating market demands and reduction in market price and income. Even though scientific evidence has heeded to these impacts, there is limited evidence regarding the long-term impacts and coping mechanisms of SSFs over longer periods. In addition, few studies have analysed these impacts and strategies from multiple perspectives. Our study aims to describe the perceived impacts of the COVID-19 outbreak on the communities of SSFs and the strategies adopted by them since the beginning of the outbreak in Trang Province, Thailand. Both qualitative and quantitative data obtained through semi-structured interviews indicated that, in the early stage of the outbreak, the SSFs used their natural, financial, and social capitals wisely; notably, human capitals were essential for the recovery in the later stages. Our findings suggested that an adaptive capacity to flexibly change livelihoods played an important role for the SSFs to cope with the outbreak; most importantly, our study indicated that, in a stagnating global economy, alternative income sources may not necessarily help SSFs.
Highlights
Academic Editor: Tim GraySmall-scale fishers (SSFs) use small-sized vessels, simple or traditional fishing gear, and a small number of crew; they usually have family or local ownership [1]
We argue that had primary education (HC) together with social relationships relationships (SC) were crucial in enhancing the resilience of small-scale fishers (SSFs) at the later stages (α-r) of the adaptive cycle
We found that HC, together with SC, played a significant role in introducing new coping strategies, which helped the fishers to restore their income levels
Summary
Academic Editor: Tim GraySmall-scale fishers (SSFs) use small-sized vessels, simple or traditional fishing gear, and a small number of crew; they usually have family or local ownership [1]. Approximately 50% of the seafood consumed in the world is caught by SSFs [4]. Despite the significance of SSFs, in terms of supporting the livelihoods of the poor and global seafood production, SSFs are considered to be vulnerable in the world. Coastal communities, where large populations depend on marine resources for their livelihoods, tend to be vulnerable to sudden shocks and long-term changes [5]. Habitat loss, pollution, and climate change, coastal small-scale fishing communities are experiencing decreased livelihood sustainability and increased food insecurity [6–8]. Compared with developed countries, SSFs tend to be more vulnerable to alterations in the global supply chains or price fluctuations [9], such as natural hazards and diseases, since they have fewer means to cope with these fluctuations [10]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
