Thurlow, G; Jones, PJ; (2021) A governance analysis of Soufriere Marine Management Area, Saint Lucia: Previously effective but increasingly challenged by driving forces. Marine Policy , 127 , Article 104220. 10.1016/j.marpol.2020.104220.

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Abstract

This paper employs the Marine Protected Area Governance (MPAG) analysis framework to explore the effectiveness of governance of Soufriere Marine Management Area (SMMA), Saint Lucia in fulfilling its objectives. The SMMA has been established for 22 years and although initially heralded as a success at resolving user conflicts and conserving biodiversity, drivers and conflicts in the area have since changed, and there are concerns that the self-sufficient SMMA has not adapted to these changes. Contemporary driving forces include a growing tourism industry and climate change. The SMMA is struggling to tackle these issues due to poor law enforcement, a weak legal system and a lack of political will. Although the SMMA on paper adopts a co-management governance approach, results from the analysis suggest the government remains highly influential. Financial constraint is also a huge challenge for the SMMA and, unable to provide benefits to the community, socioeconomic objectives are being undermined. The future focus should be on improving the financial situation by raising funds through ensuring all user fees are being collected. An equal ratio of government members to non-government stakeholders on the Board would help to re-engage the co-management approach, aiding the SMMA in again achieving its conservation objectives.

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