Work

Learning from Positive Deviance in Gender and Fisheries: A Case Study in Solomon Islands

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: We present an initial exploration of why and how participation in a case of community-based resource management (CBRM) in a Pacific context could be considered a deviation from gender norms. Using analysis of in-depth interviews with community members in a village in Malaita Province, Solomon Islands, our data suggest four causal factors appear to have contributed to higher participation of women in CBRM compared to surrounding villages in the province: (1) higher than usual participation of women in fishing, (2) inclusive leadership and intrinsic values towards equality by male leaders, (3) experience of women in other non-fisheries leadership roles, and (4) supportive attitudes by the community towards women’s leadership. We suggest that rather than research focusing on gender of individual leaders or attitudes of individuals, as has been the norm, more attention should be given to the enabling context and specific norms around fisheries, work, community governance, and resource management to understand barriers and opportunities for increased inclusion in coastal fisheries management.

Source: Human Ecology

DOI: 10.1007/s10745-025-00591-z

Authors: Chelcia Gomese, Anouk Ride, Aurélie Delisle

Institutions: University of Wollongong, Australian National University, Solomon Islands National University

Language: English

Topic: Coastal and Marine Management

Subfield: Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Gender equality, Reduced inequalities, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,290