IMPACT OF LAWS AND REGULATIONS ON FISHING LIVELIHOODS: A CASE STUDY IN TANGALLE, SRI LANKA

Abstract

The fishery is vital to the Sri Lankan domestic economy. However, the sustainability of the industry is threatened due to both anthropogenic and natural factors. This study examined the impact of laws and regulations on promoting sustainable livelihoods in the fishing community of the Tangalle Fisheries Inspector division. Primary data were collected through direct observations, surveys, and key informant interviews. The survey was conducted using the snowball sampling method with a sample of 100 respondents. Secondary data were obtained from the monthly reports of the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources District Office in Tangalle. Composited Sustainability Index (CSI) and Skewed Logistic Regression (SLR) analysis were used to assess livelihood sustainability and the factors affecting fishermen’s Compliance with Laws and Regulations (CLR). The relationship between CSI and CLR was analyzed by using Spearman’s correlation. The CSI for this community was 0.39, indicating a deterioration in livelihood sustainability. The results of the SLR analysis revealed that income significantly (p<0.05) affects compliance with laws and regulations. The correlation between CSI and CLR was not statistically significant (p>0.05). This finding highlighted that, while laws and regulations are crucial, they alone do not ensure sustainable outcomes. The results underscored the need for integrated policies addressing broader socio-economic and environmental factors to enhance livelihood sustainability within fishing communities.