ABSTRACT
Small-scale fisheries are a critical source of subsistence and livelihoods for many vulnerable people in the world (see, e.g., Charles 2011). These fisheries remain understudied, with research to date showing significant data gaps (e.g., data disaggregated by sex, age group, ethnicity, etc.), making subsequent gender and diversity analyses difficult. Past regional and global level studies regarding gender and fisheries have focussed on the high rates of female participation in pre-and post-harvest activities, and a variety of associated issues (lack of professional identity, lower pay, unsafe working conditions, health risks, exploitation, etc.). However, few studies present information for both males and females regarding aspects such as decisionmaking and distribution of returns among the production, pre-harvest, and post-harvest spheres, that would support more complete comparative analysis of the relations and differences between actors (Weeratunge et al. 2010). Additionally, the broader historic, sociocultural, and ecological context should be considered in order to understand and address current situations of inequality, especially with respect to gender. In fisheries, this is a critical and often overlooked element, as highlighted by a variety of authors (WorldFish Center 2010; FAO 2012; Williams et al. 2012). These are essential elements to developing pathways for improved livelihoods, social equality, and environmental resilience in small-scale fisheries.
