NW Collaborative
Futures Conference

Ending fisheries conflicts: An elusive catch

Fisheries conflicts exist in different dimensions and scales and continue to evolve as resource users increase while fisheries dwindle. Conflict ranges from local fishermen repulsing migrant fishermen in their localities to country restrictions regarding foreign vessels; or artisanal and recreational fishers competing to meet their needs. This diversity of fisheries users and uses in the same space coupled with the issues of ownership and governance can set the stage for more intense and sustained fisheries conflicts. I will explore these scenarios and the role that mediation can play in management of fisheries conflict.

Speaker: Sarah Ater, ACIArb
Project Manager, BILLFISH WIO

I have been involved in sustainability education, working with communities to improve livelihoods and reduce pressure on natural resources. I am currently involved in a regional research project that seeks to understand the interactions, livelihoods and linkages of the billfish fisheries. I am passionate about using my mediation skills to support sustainable use of fisheries resources.