| dc.description.abstract | The present study analyzed the legal framework that governs the coastal and marine living resources
utilization and conservation in Bangladesh. To assess the implementation realities of the laws,
qualitative fieldwork was conducted with three fishing communities in Barisal and Bhola districts. For
data collection, several qualitative data collection tools such as individual interview, key informant
interview, informal interview, focus group discussion, stakeholder analysis, as well as secondary
document analysis were employed. To realize the overarching aim of the research, this study analyzed
the existing rules and laws, identified the problems in implementation and suggests for devising
effective legal strategies for conservation and development of the living coastal and marine resources
of Bangladesh. There are four components in the analyzed laws such as prohibitions, prescriptions,
penalties and responsibilities. The result shows that, though majority of laws are detailed in terms of
prohibitions, prescriptions and penalties but these laws are not properly applied by the governance
system and non-compliance of these laws is rampant. Several causes are identified for such
mismanagement. Corruption in local government and law enforcing authorities, lacking of logistic
support, insufficient intensive, laxity in enforcement of conservation rules, limited livelihood
opportunities, political interference, lack of awareness of fishers about fishing law etc. are some major
limitations. This study suggests a number of measures for improved compliance of laws as well as
good governance of living coastal and marine resources. The suggestions include elimination of
corruption, removal administrative weakness, taking steps for ensuring good governess issues,
updating the rules and policy according to reality, reducing the communication gap between
administrative body, providing sufficient incentives to all stakeholders, increasing awareness among
fishers about the benefits of abiding laws. The findings of the study submit for a new comprehensive
legal framework for governing living coastal and marine resources in newly settled maritime zone of
Bangladesh. This study will provide a foundation for identifying and incorporating different
provisions for a comprehensive legal and policy framework for utilization and conservation of living
coastal and marine resources in Bangladesh. | en_US |
