Creating a common vision for the Tonle Sap fisheries in Cambodia

An important base for improved cooperation in the fisheries in and around the Tonle Sap Lake was laid at a three-day’s workshop in Siem Reap, Cambodia. This workshop supported by adelphi and organised by the Global FISH Alliance and WorldFish Center was the result of a large consultation process bringing together local communities, different levels of government, NGOs, academia, and media to work on issues regarding fisheries in this region. The effort was part of the project “Strengthening Aquatic Resource Governance” (STARGO), funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

The project “Strengthening Aquatic Resource Governance” (STARGO) explores the role of resource governance in the prevention of conflicts, using the example of aquatic resources like water and fish, and emphasising the importance of collective action. The Tonle Sap Lake is south-east Asia’s most productive fresh water fishery and livelihood base for more than one million people. adelphi supported the workshop organised by the Global FISH Alliance and WorldFish Center in Siem Reap, Cambodia. The workshop was designed to provide a level playing field for the exchange of ideas and solutions. For three days almost 100 participants worked together to develop common goals. By focusing on a common vision and not conflict or divisive issues this workshop served as a starting point for improving cooperation and creating stable relationships based on common interests. The workshop led to the creation of work plans and a number of different working groups that will continue working on specific issues such as enforcement and conservation.