Understanding fishers’ wellbeing through participatory processes in fisheries management

Abstract Within the social dimension of fisheries management, fisher wellbeing remains inadequately addressed due to divergent stakeholder perspectives. This study conceptualises fisher wellbeing as a dynamic system, shaped by the knowledge of the stakeholders involved. The primary objective is to quantify disparities in stakeholder perceptions and construct a comprehensive depiction of fisher wellbeing by integrating stakeholder knowledge. Leveraging a systems thinking methodology, we employ fuzzy cognitive mapping (FCM) to develop cognitive maps for individual stakeholders that show distinct pathways towards fisher wellbeing. We then integrate these into a unified map, illustrating the complexity of the system when all stakeholder voices are considered. Our findings highlight the existence of common wellbeing goals despite stakeholder differences and the challenges fisheries managers face when trying to implement co-decision making. This integrated approach provides a foundation for understanding diverse perspectives, fostering collaboration, and formulating inclusive policies that incorporate fisher wellbeing into fisheries management.