13.8 Outcomes
13.8.1 Equity
1. Role of fishers in management
Generally, the role of fishers in management has not changed compared to the past, but in the
future, the fishers expect the situation to be worse. Answers were extremely varied (score 2-
10 on the 10-rung scale), and a positive or negative perception is likely to depend on the
attitude of the respondent toward the current village government (supportive or not). The
voice of a pro-government person is more likely to reach the village officials.
When asked about power sharing, 77% thought the government had most or total responsibility for
fisheries management. The rest thought the people shared responsibility equally with the government.
2. Access to resources
Compared to the past, the fishers’ access to resources has not changed. It was noted that
people were free to fish anywhere they wanted, except for the rented areas, and that only lift
net owners need a permit. In the future, however, fishers expect significant reductions. The
current open-access area will become restricted once sasi is re-established. Access to the shallow
coastline for cast net fishers and women will be limited too, because some of the shellfish
caught by women have a commercial value. These harvest restrictions, however, will negatively
affect the household well-being in terms of food. The restrictions on the fishing area of cast
net fishers and the fishers who do not own a boat, will most probably result in major problems.
3. Distribution of fishing gears
The distribution of means of production is seen to be significantly fairer now than in the past,
and this is expected to get even better. No explanations were given for this change.
4. Income distribution
When asked about the level of economic disparities, the fishers reported that conditions had
not significantly changed. No change was expected in the future.
13.8.2 Efficiency
5. Communal decision-making
Compared to the past, the involvement of fishers in fisheries decision-making has declined
significantly. A third of the respondents stated that the village head - with or without village
government staff - makes all the decisions. The breakdown of customs, the political situation,
and decision-making behind closed doors play a role here.
Nevertheless, most fishers see the style of decision-making in the village as being a process of common
or majority agreement. The people trust the village government “to know what they do” and are
confident that the government’s decisions will benefit the village. All agreed that stakeholders should
be involved in decision-making. A large majority (83%) felt that local groups had a role in decision-
making, while the same percentage stated that outsiders were excluded. It was mentioned that the
church could have a positive influence on the participation of fishers in management involvement.
Desa Hulaliu, Haruku Island 173