Advancing equity through the “capability to aspire” in ocean and coastal governance: centering indigenous and local values to shape social–ecological futures — a review

The recent review titled "Advancing equity through the ‘capability to aspire’ in ocean and coastal governance: centering indigenous and local values to shape social–ecological futures" sheds critical light on the role of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs) in marine governance. As calls for equity and justice increasingly permeate ocean and coastal governance, this synthesis of 27 interdisciplinary studies highlights the ongoing challenge of genuinely integrating IPLC values into decision-making processes. This challenge is particularly pressing amidst rapid socioecological changes that threaten both marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of those who depend on them. For instance, understanding the impacts of climate change on marine life, as explored in articles like Impacts of coinciding ocean acidification and warming on the fatty acid profile of the pteropod Limacina helicina within the Northeast Pacific coastal region, underscores the urgency of incorporating local knowledge into governance frameworks.

The review identifies three crucial insights that should resonate deeply with policymakers, researchers, and practitioners alike. First, it emphasizes that IPLC values can be mobilized through various mechanisms, including tenure rights, treaty-making, and collaborative governance models. These strategies not only strengthen the authority of IPLCs but also promote culturally grounded stewardship practices that are essential for sustainable ocean management. As we see in aquaculture, highlighted in articles such as Effects of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics on immune function, disease resistance, digestive health, and stress management in fish culture, the integration of local and scientific knowledge is vital for the resilience and health of aquatic ecosystems.

The second insight reveals that IPLC knowledge systems foster relational, place-based practices that enhance adaptive management in the face of various uncertainties. However, these practices are increasingly threatened by competing demands on ocean resources and climate-driven environmental changes. The review calls attention to the need for greater transparency in decision-making processes, which is crucial for ensuring that IPLC voices are not only heard but actively shape governance outcomes. This necessity becomes especially relevant as we examine emerging pathways for equitable governance that prioritize collaborative monitoring and collective action, which are foundational for addressing the complexities of marine stewardship.

Lastly, the review argues for the importance of building an agency-based capability to aspire, which allows IPLCs to envision and strive for alternative futures. This capability is not only about sustaining and voicing values but also about negotiating authority and mobilizing resources in a rapidly changing ecological landscape. The insights offered here call for a reevaluation of how we conceptualize equity within ocean governance, advocating for a more nuanced understanding that accommodates the diverse aspirations of IPLCs. As the review suggests, uneven distributions of this capability could reinforce existing inequities, making it imperative for stakeholders to actively work toward inclusive governance structures.

Looking ahead, the implications of centering IPLC values in ocean governance are profound. As we grapple with the realities of climate change and biodiversity loss, the ability to create spaces for IPLC aspirations will be critical. One question worth contemplating is how we can effectively bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and local wisdom to foster a more equitable and sustainable future for our oceans. As we explore these dynamics, it is essential to remain vigilant about the need for structures that genuinely empower IPLCs, enabling them to shape the future of marine governance and stewardship.