Una contribución a la política pública para el manejo costero integrado de Honduras: análisis diagnóstico

Abstract

The processes of appropriation and unsustainable use of the Honduran coast demand of an effective public policy aimed at the conservation and restoration of its valuable and distinct natural and cultural heritage. Honduras, like other countries in the region, has signed international regulations in this regard, but their is still a lack of a proper public policy to address the challenges posed by global changes on coastal areas. This Central American country has initiated in 2012 the development of a coastal and marine policy for Integrated Coastal Management-MCI. This article first presents an overview of the diagnosis of biophysical and socio-economical status of the national coastline that has served as a basic input for policy. Below is the diagnosis on the legal-administrative subsystem, that currently exists related to MCI of Honduras, we believe a useful analysis in policy design for better governance of coastal areas. The methodology used for this diagnosis is the Decalogue (Decalogo in spanish), a widely used tool in the region, especially by the 13 countries members of the Latin American Network of Integrated Coastal Management-Network IBERMAR. The topics discussed here were: Public policies, rules, institutions, skills, tools, public information, resources, education and training, education for sustainability and public participation. It is concluded that Honduras is in the pre-inicial implementation phase of the MCI, however it is noted the existence of political will, higher education related programs and a legal framework that promotes citizen participation, key issues for this management.