This report provides a baseline analysis of women’s economic empowerment in the fisheries sector in the blue economy of the Indian Ocean rim region. The report focuses on the 22 Member States of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and includes both marine and inland fisheries and aquaculture sectors. IORA is an inter-governmental organization aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and sustainable development within the Indian Ocean region.
IORA Member States share a common coastline along the Indian Ocean Rim, and fishing is a traditional activity in the region with many countries having well developed inland and marine fishery sectors. IORA has therefore identified the goal of growing the blue economy in a sustainable, inclusive and people-centered manner as one of its special focus areas, with fisheries and aquaculture included among six priority pillars.
