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These Guidelines have been developed in response to requests for further information on the practical adoption and application of the ecosystem approach to fisheries (EAF), with a special focus on its human dimensions. As implementation of EAF is a human pursuit and takes place in the context of societal goals and aspirations, the human forces at play need to be understood and considered – these include policies, legal frameworks, social structures, cultural values, economic principles , institutional processes and any other relevant form or expression of human behaviour. Human dimensions play four main roles in EAF: (1) social, economic and institutional objectives and factors are driving forces behind the need for EAF management; (2) the costs and benefits to individuals and to society of applying the EAF have social, economic and institutional impacts and implications; (3) the application of social, economic and institutional instruments are all crucial for succ essful implementation of the EAF; and (4) social, economic and institutional factors present in fishery systems can play either supporting or constraining roles in EAF implementation.

Download these guidelines, here.