Informational capabilities of the climate-vulnerable and natural-resource constrained communities

Our research investigates the informational capabilities of fisherfolk communities in Bangladesh, focusing on the role of information and communications technology (ICT) in enhancing their livelihoods. Despite ICT's potential benefits, fisherfolk face barriers such as lack of awareness, inadequate infrastructure, and limited digital literacy. Using a mixed-methods approach, our study collects quantitative and qualitative data from fisherfolk in the Kurigram and Chandpur districts. The preliminary findings reveal a heavy reliance on traditional communication methods and significant gender disparities in ICT access. This paper underscores the importance of improving informational capabilities, which include access to information, analytical skills, effective communication, and practical application of knowledge. Our paper concludes that expanded informational capabilities may address these challenges and enhance the economic and social resilience of fisherfolk communities through tailored, localised information dissemination and digital literacy programs.