A Preliminary Analysis of Fisheries Science Networks in the Eastern Caribbean

Fisheries science networks in the Caribbean comprise interactions between nodes such as fisheries authorities, managers, scientists and policy-making institutions that are tied to each other in a variety of relationships. The Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) fisheries science working groups connect the countries, their fisheries authorities and others in data sharing and some level of collaborative stock and fishery assessment with the aim of tendering scientific advice for management and policy decisions. The quantity and quality of data collected and shared for assessment, and the assessment processes are likely to be, in part, functions of the nature and structure of the networks. This paper presents the results of a preliminary network analysis of the CRFM fishery science networks in the eastern Caribbean, with emphasis upon information exchange. I argue that existing ties illustrate how limited communication and weak linkages in the networks of national fisheries authorities, scientists, and managers result in inadequate science information exchange. Such patterns are not uncommon in the fisheries systems of both developed and developing countries. The findings here are based upon analysis of data collected using surveys, observation and review of reports. However, the data set is small and conclusions that can be drawn from it are tentative and preliminary. Despite these limitations they illustrate the potential use of network analysis as a tool for providing information to manage and improve fishery science networks. This has implications for the broader issues of policy and governance.