Dear SSF forum contributors – and contributors-to-be,
Just over two weeks have now elapsed of our e-consultation and we have a bit less than one week to go. I’d like to thank those of you who have already posted your comments and inputs – and encourage those who have not done so yet to start writing and post at your earliest convenience so that we have time to share and consider your experiences!
Reading through your contributions so far, I note that there is broad agreement on that we all have to engage and promote partnerships for the implementation of the SSF Guidelines. The special responsibility of governments is being pointed out, in particular with regard to giving priority to the small-scale fisheries sector, but there is often a need to clarify the different roles of different government departments. It is also important that small-scale actors take ownership of the implementation process and, at the local and community level, empowerment, leadership training and organisational development (building on existing structures) are needed. With regard to information and communication, aspects highlighted include the need for awareness raising and increased use of various forms of media - respecting cultures and languages - and dissemination of facts and figures to improve the knowledge on and visibility of small-scale fisheries. Some of the challenges cited include absence of policy frameworks that reflect the reality of the small-scale fisheries sector, a lack of funding and also the incidence of corruption. Looking at the brighter side, there are of course also important opportunities, for example by seeking increased engagement by youth and support from consumers, including through fair trade initiatives.
This was of course just a very brief overview of some of the inputs – I hope you will read the different contributions to learn more. Please feel free to reply to propositions already made when posting your contributions. I look forward to hearing from you!
With best wishes,
Your facilitator Lena
Mme Lena Westlund