The Fiji Islands is a country rich in marine biodiversity. Fiji is also home to a
large Indigenous population with a powerful heritage which is culturally and
spiritually connected with the ocean. Many Indigenous people continue to
live a largely traditional lifestyle adhering to customary laws and practices.
2. The fisheries sector is a significant contributor to both the national economy
and local livelihoods. Therefore, marine resources must be sustainably
managed to care for the ecosystems and also the livelihoods which depend
upon them. Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) are an important management
tool for Fiji in the quest to protect its inshore and offshore ocean
environment.
3. To date there have been few state controlled MPAs designated in Fiji
although legislation provides for this. In relation to offshore waters, the
declaration of suitable areas is relatively straightforward. However, the
situation with respect to inshore marine areas is complicated by the issue of
Indigenous customary fishing rights. Nevertheless, by far the most significant
inroads to date, in marine protected area management, have been made by
local communities through the establishment of Locally Managed Marine
Areas (LMMAs). By combining these with the designation of offshore MPAs, it
would be possible to achieve much greater biodiversity and ecosystem
management of the marine environment.