Exclusionary decision-making processes in marine governance: The rezoning plan for the protected areas of the ‘iconic’ Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

摘要: Abstract The number of marine protected areas (MPAs) has increased twenty-fold since 1993, and there are ambitious targets for further expansion set by international conservation agencies. This been accompanied claims that only No-take MPAs (NTMPAs) can effectively ensure biodiversity conservation, the community become increasingly active influential in promoting them. However, NTMPAs clearly have consequences resource users whose livelihoods impacted restricted access to natural resources. Since these trigger social conflicts impeded progress towards goals, concerted efforts find collaborative inclusive approaches MPA planning management. paper assesses stakeholder engagement decision-making processes related management Galapagos Marine Reserve, examines how influenced shifting narratives lead up to, execution of, 2016 rezoning process. A dramatic shift process, a top-down declaration no-take MPA, fostered delayed full-implementation new zoning plan even three years after its official declaration. Through mixed-methods approach we contrast perceptions, expectations experiences key actors groups: small-scale fisheries sector, scientific research community, sector. study illustrates challenges associated with rushed initiatives, promoted supported large external NGOs, it demonstrates “back barriers” undermine acceptance practices jeopardize success MPAs.