How transparent are RFMOs? Achievements and challenges
In: Marine Policy. Elsevier: UK. ISSN 0308-597X; e-ISSN 1872-9460, more
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| Abstract |
Transparency has been recognized as a key factor for successful resource management, and in view of the continuing decline of marine fishery resources demands for improved transparency in fisheries governance have been growing. RFMOs have responded to these calls and successfully implemented basic transparency requirements imposed by UNFSA, namely free access to most reports, documents and data, and admittance of IGOs and NGOs as observers at their meetings. The article examines RFMO legal regimes, procedures, and practices related to external and internal transparency. It considers the sharing of information, openness of the decision-making process, level of participation of external and internal actors in policymaking and the role of RFMO secretariats in supporting transparency. The study finds that RFMOs could improve their openness by introducing a process of formal consultation with external stakeholders, as required by the ecosystem approach to fisheries. Furthermore, the participation and influence of developing coastal states in RFMOs is often lacking due to insufficient funds and human resources, and in transparent practices in RFMO decision-making can exacerbate this problem. The study recognizes that well-resourced and independent RFMO secretariats can significantly promote transparency (or in transparency if staff are not neutral). RFMOs are key instruments to address the fisheries dilemma that the conservation of marine resources depends on the cooperation of states although almost all fish are caught in areas under national jurisdiction. Thus, they carry a high responsibility for promoting transparency, best practices, and a fair participation of all members in their activities and decisions. |
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