In a virtual event organised by SwedBio, leading voices from South Asia convened on Monday to emphasise the pivotal role of gender equality in achieving sustainability within marine ecology and small-scale fisheries.
The virtual discussion, moderated by Sanat Kumar Bhowmik of the COAST Foundation, spotlighted the critical need for gender inclusivity, social equity, and sustainable development in the often-overlooked domain of small-scale fisheries.
The speakers underscored the significant economic contributions of the small-scale fisheries sector in nations like Bangladesh, India, and Thailand.
Despite the active involvement of women in various facets of the industry, from harvesting to processing and marketing, the speakers pointed out the persistent neglect of women in terms of resources and services.
Throughout the event, experts including Ravadee Prasertcharoensuk, Varunton Kwawtankam, Prof Dr Md Abdul Wahab, and others shed light on the challenges faced by women in the sector.
Issues such as limited decision-making power, lack of economic empowerment, and undervaluation of their contribution to resource ownership were brought to the forefront.
Real-time challenges and tangible solutions were shared by Supaporn Phanria and Khairayah Rahmaniya, who highlighted environmental threats, declining incomes, and the necessity of enhancing women’s skills in the face of crises.
The importance of regional cooperation and concrete action plans to address challenges such as climate change, rule violations by large trawlers, and technological disparities were discussed.
The speakers collectively called for gender-inclusive policies, increased networking, advocacy with governments, and active youth involvement to ensure sustainable small-scale fisheries and the well-being of those dependent on them.
Representatives from women fishers’ groups underscored the urgency of overcoming barriers related to inclusion in government services, wage inequality, and the creation of safe working environments.
Their demands included easy loan facilities for entrepreneurship, active political participation, increased access to education and employment.
The event concluded with a collective call for joint collaboration and prioritisation of gender equality for the sustainable future of small-scale fisheries.