Introduction

This chapter provides an overall synthesis of the findings of the four working groups – Reef Fisheries Ecosystems, Pelagic Fisheries Ecosystems, Continental Shelf Fisheries Ecosystems, and Governance – on a shared vision and implementation of ecosystem-based management (EBM) in the Wider Caribbean. Drawing on the outputs from each of the working groups (Chapters 22-25), a combined vision and network of strategic directions was identified that was underpinned by a suite of agreed principles that would serve as a guide for decision-making. The fact that these were developed through group processes using methods that allowed all participants to make an input is an important aspect of these outputs. In this regard they are thought to reflect the combined inputs of the full range of expertise and experience that was present at the symposium.

Principles

The importance of placing principles at the forefront of discussions about EBM was emphasised throughout the symposium. It was noted that making these explicit will ensure that all who are working in EBM/EAF in the Caribbean will be working from a common set of principles, or at least have a reference set against which to compare their working principles. Table 26.1 presents the relationship of the top 10 principles identified by the symposium participants at the beginning of the process (Chapter 2) to the vision elements emerging from the visioning process carried out with the four working groups. What is clear from Table 26.1 is that all top 10 principles are integral to the visions that emerged. Thus achieving EBM will require careful checking and rechecking of principles to ensure that there is adherence to them and that there is a balance among them.

The Combined Vision

The vision elements for EBM/EAF for the Wider Caribbean from each of the four groups was combined into an overall vision, as illustrated in the final column of Table 26.2. By incorporating the essential elements from each group as reflected in the first four columns of the table, the agreed vision was identified as: “Healthy marine systems that are fully valued and protected through strong institutions at local national and regional levels providing effective governance that involves everyone, is fully understood and supported by the public and enhances livelihoods and human wellbeing.”