The First International Conference on Marine Mammal Protected Areas

maintain positive momentum, (c) avoid overloading stakeholders, and (d) close
gaps in communication.
• In negotiations with stakeholders, it is important to develop a common
understanding of real resource needs; set clear, shared objectives; and not allow
predetermined negotiating positions or the most vocal individuals to dominate
discussions. With regard to the latter, effort should be made to control and take
advantage of their energy in order to drive discussions and outcomes in a
positive and not divisive direction.
• Coordination is vital. Communities vary in their willingness and ability to
“consult.” Particularly in small rural communities, stakeholders are often
involved in multiple consultations regarding access to their resources and the use
of those resources by non-governmental organizations and government agencies.
Thus, community consultations must be coordinated to avoid overloading and
duplication, which can lead to “consultation burn-out.” <strong>The</strong>re is also a risk that,
especially when stakeholders depend on the consultation process for income,
that process itself will become a kind of “new economy.”
• Monitoring of the stakeholder plan and strategy is necessary to identify issues
that need to be addressed and to maintain positive momentum. Assessing and
managing stakeholder expectations is essential in order to avoid problems.
Providing the feedback necessary to stakeholders, not too little but also not too
much, is essential.
• Scientists and conservationists must translate their products in order to establish
good communication with stakeholders. Furthermore, they should always be
modest and demonstrate genuine respect and appreciation for the perspectives,
cultures, and knowledge of key stakeholders, such as fishermen and local
communities.
• Honesty, transparency, and trust are too often neglected in stakeholder
communication and interactions. Listening to stakeholders’ concerns,
acknowledging their contributions and their understanding of marine resource
issues, and trying to put oneself in their shoes are essential for maintaining longterm
stakeholder support.
Stakeholder participation processes can be categorized at four levels, which can progress
from (1) information gathering, to (2) consultation (where the views of stakeholders are
actively requested and used to shape decision-making, to (3) shared decision-making
(where solutions to specific issues or problems are sought cooperatively and
collaboratively), to (4) identifying and involving key personalities who are able to build
bridges and trust among participants (gatekeepers).
Networking – Key Messages Emerging from the Workshop:
Sharing experience and technology: Important issues such as the development of bycatch
mitigation methods and the use of special communication tools (e.g., storytelling,
websites, “dialogue matters”) would benefit from better networking among MMPAs.
Common populations – common threats: Fishing fleets (e.g., European Community fleets
operating in Pacific Ocean) and other industries (e.g., salmon farming in Chile, oil
industry, maritime shipping) are often major subjects addressed in MMPA management
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