Livelihood adaptation in fisheries and social resilience – a literature review and conceptual framework {MMO1416}
This project examined the social impacts of management changes on fishers, their families and communities. Published literature was reviewed to distil current understanding of how and why fishers adapt their livelihoods and implications for resilience and sustainability. A conceptual framework was developed and a small number of interviews undertaken.
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This report examines how fishers, their families and communities adapt to change, aiming to better understand the social impacts of fisheries management. It identifies three main livelihood responses: coping (short‑term adjustments), adaptation (long‑term changes and diversification), and transformation (more radical shifts such as leaving fishing), alongside risks of maladaptation.
Decisions are shaped by complex demographic, economic, social and governance factors, as well as individual agency. The study highlights that barriers and enablers to adaptation often overlap. It concludes that fisheries policy should recognise sector diversity, improve fishers’ agency, and support equitable, resilient and sustainable fishing communities through informed management decisions.