Title
Using social network analysis and network weaving to increase effectiveness of integrated coastal management in Bua Province, Fiji
Author(s)
McDavid, B. M.;Acton, G.
Published
2014
Abstract
This study explores the feasibility of using social network analysis (SNA) and network weaving activities to increase the effectiveness of integrated coastal management (ICM) outcomes in Bua Province, Fiji. By applying social network theory to the ICM process in Bua, we recognize that stakeholders interact with each other through networks and that various network characteristics affect the way in which the network functions. We show how SNA, paired with qualitative investigations, increased our understanding of the roles various individuals play in sharing knowledge and skills, connecting marginalized groups, and making resource management decisions. By comparing network maps from different districts, we discuss how various network structures may affect desired management outcomes. We briefly explore the challenges for adaptive governance amongst diverse stakeholders from both traditional and legal institutions and from across nested political and spatial scales. Next, we show how applying what is learned from SNA via network weaving activities can help overcome some of these challenges by strategically building new, or strengthening existing, relationships. We conclude by evaluating the ability of SNA to contribute to effective ICM and the implications this has for other ICM sites in Fiji and abroad. This study is part of longer term research seeking to compare various ICM strategies and evaluate both their ecological and socio-economic outcomes in a continued attempt to develop best practices for ICM in Fiji.

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PUB15248