Promoting Policy Reform for Sustainable Fisheries: Insights from the BIODEV 2030 Second National Dialogue in Guyana
This second national dialogue, which took the form of a technical working session, set up a critical stage in the process of supporting sustainable fisheries and biodiversity integration through comprehensive policy reform.
A major focus of the dialogue was the discussion around policy reforms, where participants engaged in deep discussions and working sessions about the necessary changes to existing legislation and institutional frameworks to support sustainable fisheries. Furthermore, the dialogue underscored the urgency of updating laws that govern fisheries management, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations that better protect marine biodiversity and ensure the sustainability of crucial fish stocks.
The technical working sessions attracted various stakeholders, including the British High Commission, Rosignol Fishermen’s Cooperative Society Limited, Guyana Revenu Authority, Maritime Administration Department, University of Guyana, Policy Forum, and The Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission.
Delivering brief remarks at the session, the British High Commissioner, Jane Miller, stated that she was pleased to have the opportunity to participate in this initiative as it aligns with the work of the UK Government’s Blue Economy programme, which also relies heavily on stakeholder engagement and collaboration to protect and conserve marine biodiversity.
The growing intensity of threats to biodiversity within the fisheries sector was also discussed, recognising that without immediate action, ecosystems critical for maintaining fish populations are under immense pressure. Discussions highlighted the need for more interagency collaboration, stringent monitoring and enforcement measures, alongside community engagement, to foster a culture of conservation.
Aiesha Williams, interim conservation Director for WWF-Guianas, in her remarks, pointed out the importance of prioritising policy reform and identifying actionable projects, stating that “the BIODEV 2030 project can lay the foundation for the setting up of a proactive agenda for biodiversity conservation in Guyana's fisheries sector which not only leads to the preservation of the rich biodiversity of Guyana’s waters but also ensures the viability of its fisheries industry for future generations.”