Participation in Commercial Fisheries Management in Ranong Province

Abstract

This research aims to 1) study the nature of participation in commercial fisheries management in Ranong province, and 2) study the factors that contribute to the participation in commercial fisheries management in Ranong province. This research uses a qualitative method with semi-structured in-depth interviews conducted with 26 key informants, participatory and non-participatory observations, and descriptive data analysis. The results demonstrate the participation in fisheries management among many sectors, including fisheries operators, operators of individual fishing ports, non-governmental organizations, and local fishermen. These sectors participate in the manner of compliance with the law, providing comments for the improvement of government measures in fisheries management and for their participation in the law-making process. The factors that contribute to the participation include the adaptation of government and fisheries operators, and the good relationship between the local and commercial fishermen in Ranong province. All in all, this kind of participation in commercial fisheries management in Ranong province has already developed to a certain extent. This development has to be further promoted to ensure an equal partnership between the state and the users of natural resources.