Positive social transformations of coastal communities: what conditions enable the success of territorial use rights for fishing?

Recognizing or establishing territorial use rights for fisheries (TURFs) can drive positive social transformation, including change of (i) norms, values and beliefs; (ii) rules and practices; and, (iii) the distribution and flow of power, authority, and resources. However, positive social transformation is not always ensured. This review describes a set of enabling conditions that are useful to achieve positive social transformation with TURFs. We suggest actions that should be taken before establishing TURFs, including: identifying and supporting the enabling conditions, increasing the community’s adaptative capacity, and developing guidance on implementing tenure and rights-based systems. Additionally, the implementation of TURFs should take place in a holistic, inclusive and transparent manner, taking into consideration non-rights holders and resources outside the area.