Co-management: what is it, and why does it matter? (Tetum)

Abstract

Fisheries co-management is a partnership of local users and beneficiaries of aquatic resources, including small-scale fishers and gleaners, traders, processors and consumers, as well as governments. This shared partnership is responsible for the economic, social and environmental sustainability of fisheries and their related livelihoods. At the community level, co-management is normally facilitated through a group or committee comprised of men and women representing the fishers and gleaners, traders, consumers and local authorities. Engagements with government at higher levels vary. Most importantly, co-management facilitates the open flow of information between community groups and the government. This may lead to shared actions and, thus, collaboratively managed fishery resources.