Social Dimensions in Designing and Managing Marine Protected Areas in Bangladesh

This study assesses the governance challenges faced by two different types of aquatic protected areas in Bangladesh for fish stocks and elasmobranch and cetacean species. Establishing a network of sanctuaries across six riverine and estuarine zones has yielded positive ecological outcomes in the revitalization of hilsa shad (Tenualosa ilisha) fisheries. The combination of firm political commitment, a meaningful partnership among various government agencies toward more vigorous enforcement, and a compensation scheme has contributed to this success. However, less attention has been given to the sanctuaries’ social outcomes leading to underperformance in effectiveness and social equity. The drivers of ecological outcomes for hilsa shad sanctuaries may also be useful for marine megafauna conservation. In addition, fishers’ needs, and participation should be considered when developing a management plan for marine protected areas (MPAs). Finally, I argue that to achieve Aichi Target 11 and SDG14 goals, expanding the MPAs’ spatial coverage in Bangladesh should be coupled with ensuring effectiveness and social equity.