The Ecosystem Approach and Public Engagement in Ocean Governance: The Case of Maritime Spatial Planning

Abstract

The concept of ocean governance entails complex multilevel relations and processes through which ‘individuals and institutions, public and private’, attempt to manage maritime affairs, accommodate diverse interests and cooperate through formal or informal arrangements.1 The spectrum of issues falling under the general rubric of ‘ocean governance’ is extremely broad. It encompasses different sectoral policies, ranging from maritime transport, fisheries and the exploitation of marine resources to marine environmental protection, blue energy or underwater cultural heritage. Additionally, ocean governance implicates different levels of decision-making (international, regional, national and sub-national) and involves various actors that either take part in decision-making processes or are affected by them, including national and local authorities, international organizations, private companies, NGOs, local communities and individuals.