Enhancing Livelihood Resilience: A Comprehensive Analysis of Small-Scale Fishers

Background: The aim of this research is to examine livelihood resilience and strategic policies that need to be implemented to increase the livelihood resilience of small-scale fishers. Methods: The data collection method employed in this study was semi-structured interviews, utilizing purposeful sampling techniques. This research was conducted specifically in the context of Karimunjawa Island, Indonesia. The approach used to elucidate the fishers’ livelihoods was the livelihood resilience approach, which aims to understand fishers ability to withstand and recover from various challenges and shocks. The analysis was conducted using three key variables: Buffer Capacity, Learning Capacity, and Self-Organizing Capacity, to comprehensively assess the resilience of fisher livelihoods in the Karimunjawa area. Results: Karimunjawa fishers exhibit “medium resilience” across Buffer Capacity (0.39), Self-Organization Capacity (0.50), and Learning Capacity (0.54) dimensions. This resilience reflects their ability to navigate socio-ecological dynamics, including changes in fish resources, coastal biodiversity, land use, and exposure to coastal hazards, crucial for sustaining livelihoods. Economically, resilience is influenced by the scale of the community’s livelihood activities, the volume of catches, and production management, with small-scale fishers facing constraints in accessing alternative livelihood options, compounded by rural community backgrounds. Conclusions: This research includes contributions to the development of policies that strengthen the welfare of small-scale fishers in Karimunjawa, implementation of practical programs and initiatives to improve fisher living conditions within Karimunjawa, increased academic understanding of livelihood resilience, and a better understanding of the social and ecological impacts of small-scale fishers’ activities. Thus, this research has the potential to provide a significant impact in supporting the survival of small-scale fishers and environmental conservation in the area.