Reflections on the Sea of Change project

This learning report describes the processes involved in implementing a tailor made gender integration approach based on capacity development, technical assistance, and action learning involving unpacking the project’s Theory of Change from a gender perspective. Qualitative fieldwork and a series of reflection workshops generated the findings presented in this report, which focus on the early outcomes that emerged and the major lessons learned on implementing the process. Overall, there are strong signs that a holistic approach to fisheries management that addresses inclusivity of fisheries management, and economic and financial resilience, leads to better and more sustainable results in improving fisheries resources and wellbeing in fishing communities. However, it is too early in the process to assess whether this will lead to lasting improvements to marine resources in the long term.

While important steps were made towards ensuring women become fully recognised participants in fisheries management decision-making processes, there were also challenges, in particular related to constraining gender norms. Both men and women were well informed about the rules around sustainable fishing practices, and these practices were starting to be implemented.