Conflict Management in the Use of Coastal Fisheries Resources in Pak Phanang Bay, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, 2014–2024

Conflict Management in the Use of Coastal Fisheries Resources in Pak Phanang Bay

Abstract

This research aims to: (1) study the causes of conflicts in the use of coastal fisheries resources in Pak Phanang Bay, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, during 2014–2024; and (2) examine the models and processes for conflict management regarding the use of coastal fisheries resources in Pak Phanang Bay, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, during 2014–2024. This study employs a descriptive research approach using qualitative data collection methods to analyze real-life phenomena. The collected data is then used to analyze the models and processes for preventing and managing conflicts, with the goal of promoting justice in the use of coastal fisheries resources in Pak Phanang Bay, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province.

          The study found that the causes of conflict in the use of coastal fisheries resources in Pak Phanang Bay, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, under the context of shared resource use among coastal fishing groups in two districts-Muang District (including the communities of Ban Pak Nakhon, Tha Rai, and Pak Phun) and Pak Phanang District (Laem Talumphuk coastal fishing community)-stem from changes in fishing practices driven by increased market demand for marine resources. This has led coastal fishing communities to shift from subsistence fishing to commercial fishing. The increase in coastal fisheries using modern fishing vessels and technology has resulted in competition over limited aquatic resources, leading to conflicts. These conflicts can be categorized into two types Individual-Level Conflicts Conflicts that occur among individuals within the community, between communities, and with capital groups both inside and outside the area, especially those involved in blood cockle (ark shell) farming.Policy-Level Conflicts Conflicts arising from state policies that regulate coastal fisheries. These are top-down policies where communities call for regulatory relaxation, while the state enforces strict legal measures.The models and processes for managing conflicts over coastal fisheries resources in Pak Phanang Bay during 2014–2024 involve the use of a co-management model known as the "Pak Phanang Model." This model integrates the participation of multiple sectors and relies on the creation of shared rules for coastal fisheries, utilizing the Fisheries Act B.E. 2558 (2015), ministerial regulations, and joint action plans for marine resource management among various agencies, coastal fishing communities in Pak Phanang Bay, and commercial fishing groups. The approach also blends social capital through kinship systems, negotiation, mediation, and fact-finding by respected elders or community leaders.