Gender In Fisheries Team (GIFT)
Overview
Background
Gender has not been a high priority topic in Caribbean fisheries management (conservation or development). Compared to other areas of the world the gender characteristics of Caribbean small-scale fisheries are poorly documented. People involved in fisheries routinely make assumptions about gender based mainly on their own observations. UWI-CERMES and partners will conduct applied interdisciplinary research and outreach to better understand and assist with policy and practice concerning gender in Caribbean small-scale fisheries. A Gender in Fisheries Team (GIFT) has been formed for this initiative.
Project Objective
The main objective of GIFT is to facilitate and support implementation of the Voluntary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries in the Context of Food Security and Poverty Eradication (SSF Guidelines) in CRFM member states. Within the SSF Guidelines our focus is on the section Responsible fisheries and sustainable development, sub-section 8 on Gender equality. This is the overall purpose that guides the many activities of GIFT.
Scope and Identity
GIFT cannot cover all aspects of gender from all perspectives on the topic. Initially the scope will be limited to SSF fisheries value chains and governance arrangements at sub-regional, national and local levels. We will work with members of the Caribbean Network of Fisherfolk Organisations (CNFO). Emphasis will be mainly at the local level on settlements, households, enterprises and individuals. Our approach to gender will concentrate on livelihoods and governance institutions, but can be expected to expand. Taking an ecosystem approach to fisheries, topics such as climate and disasters are relevant along with poverty, food security and other aspects of the SSF Guidelines. GIFT’s identity of being about small-scale fisheries and including both men and women is reflected in the logo.
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GIFT focus countries (CNFO, 2016)
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GIFT Logo
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Duration
Jan 1st, 2016 – December 31st, 2018
Funding
Some core funding will be provided by UWI-CERMES but most funds will be sought through grants for projects from a variety of Caribbean and external sources. Continued partnership with FAO and others are highly valued. In-kind contributions from anticipated participants are much appreciated.