Challenging the Blue Economy: Voices from Artisanal Fishing Communities in Latin America and the Caribbean

Abstract

This article examines the prevailing blue economy narrative in Latin America and the Caribbean, emphasizing its inherent inequities. It focuses on the perspectives of artisanal fisher leaders from 16 countries who participated in a regional workshop organized by the International Collective in Support of Fishworkers in Brazil in the context of the International Year of Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture, Fisherfolks’ perspectives align well with recent calls for ‘Blue Justice’, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of health, food security and sovereignty, culture, identity, and environmental protection. It also underscores the significance of gender equity and youth involvement in small-scale artisanal fisheries, solidarity among fishers, and adherence to the FAO’s Voluntary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries in the Context of Food Security and Poverty Eradication (SSF Guidelines). Latin American and Caribbean fisher leaders argue for a model of development that recognizes and mitigates inherent inequities, promotes inclusivity, safeguards rights, and empowers communities to exercise sovereignty over their local ecosystems.