The socio-economic survey on Atauro Island and Liquica Village, Timor Leste

Abstract

The objective goal of this survey is to determine the socioeconomic conditions of the current Liquica and Atauro communities to be considered in preparation and implementation of marine protected area. Surveys were conducted in Liquica and Atauro using a questionnaire and combined with focus group discussions. The survey was conducted on fishermen, community leaders, travel service providers and local government. Survey results show that the socioeconomic conditions of the Liquica and Atauro communities still need to be improved, as the income level of the community is almost equal to the level of its family's expenditure. In addition, the people of Liquica and Atauro are still very dependent on the condition of the coastal and marine areas, so it needs to be strengthened with the development of alternative livelihoods that can supplement family income. Ocean economic activities would be feasible to be implemented in Liquica and Ataruro, especially fisheries, marine tourism and sea transportation. Tara Bandu's local institutions and regulations will very effectively serve as a bridge for institutional planning and implementation of management in Liquica and Atauro.