This report presents a literature review of marine protected areas (MPAs) throughout the world, with an
emphasis on 16 case studies that involve community participation and indigenous peoples. Details of three
MPAs, namely the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park in Australia, San Salvador Marine Reserve in the
Philippines, and the Fagatele Bay Marine Sanctuary in American Samoa, are included to illustrate the
importance of community involvement in establishing MPAs. A table summarises each MPA reviewed in terms
of its establishment, purpose, level of protection, planning and management process, enforcement, community
involvement, problems and results.
The successful establishment of marine reserves or marine protected areas depends largely on public support
and community participation in as early stage as in the planning process. Yet, in practice, many M PAs are
established using a traditional 'top-down' approach. Opposition from users groups, resource use conflicts and
economic concerns are common and are the most important factors which often lead to MPAs not being fully
implemented. Participation of indigenous people is further limited due to barriers in the planning process such
as cultural differences, and the time and format constraints. As a result, indigenous peoples' interests and
concerns are not well represented in MPA design and planning.Science, Faculty ofNon UBCOceans and Fisheries, Institute for theUnreviewedFacultyGraduateUnknow
