Navigating Social-Ecological Trade-Offs in Hilsa Conservation in Bangladesh

My PhD aims to address the complex challenges arising from current conservation efforts for the Hilsa fish (Tenualosa ilisha). Hilsa is a culturally and economically significant species in South Asia, underpinning the livelihoods and food security of over 3 million people in Bangladesh and contributing approximately $4.3 billion to the regional economy.

Despite its importance, the Hilsa population faces dual threats from global climate change and overfishing. In response, since 2011, the Bangladeshi government has implemented policy interventions such as fishing restrictions and economic incentives during the breeding season. While these measures have led to increased catch numbers, reports from organizations like the International Institute of Environment and Development (IIED), WorldFish, and USAID highlight unintended consequences: the marginalization of local communities dependent on Hilsa fishing.

Recognizing that such social-ecological trade-offs are not unique to Hilsa conservation, my research proposes using a Social-Ecological Systems (SES) approach to understand and mitigate these challenges. Specifically, I will adapt Ostrom's SES framework, which has been effectively applied in small-scale fisheries research in developing countries.

My research aims to: 1. Delineate the Hilsa SES in Bangladesh. 2. Assess the status and trends of the SES, including its elements, linkages, and outcomes over time. 3. Determine the nature and magnitude of trade-offs occurring between various system outcomes. 4. Identify the pathways through which these trade-offs occur.

5. Co-create options with stakeholders to achieve a balance between social and ecological goals in Hilsa conservation. Methodologically, my project employs a mixed-methods approach over three phases:

Phase 1 (Qualitative): Engage stakeholders through participatory workshops, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews to define the Hilsa SES and identify relevant indicators tailored to the local context.

Phase 2 (Quantitative): Collect and analyze multi-level spatial and temporal data on SES variables from sources like government departments and climate datasets. Statistical models will be developed to explore trade-offs and causal relationships within the system.

Phase 3 (Qualitative): Validate the quantitative findings with stakeholders and collaboratively develop actionable strategies for balanced conservation efforts.

The significance of my research lies in its potential to fill critical knowledge gaps by providing a unified framework that integrates both social and ecological aspects of Hilsa fisheries. The outcomes are expected to benefit policymakers and local communities by offering evidence-based options that enhance food security, promote economic prosperity, and ensure the sustainable management of the Hilsa fishery in Bangladesh.