Challenges for good governance in coastal socio-ecological systems of Campeche: Analysis from the expert users' perspective

Abstract

The research focused on the local governance of three socio-ecological systems (SES) with Marine-Coastal Natural Protected Areas (NPA) in Campeche, Mexico. The objective was to describe the obstacles for good governance within the coastal SES of Campeche, through the perception and experience of expert users, including academics, government agents, and representatives of civil society organizations (n = 32). Most key users are linked to community organizations (n = 20), and their work has been decisive for management and conservation activities. However, there is still needed to integrate academic research to local issues and facilitate experiences exchange. Community-based mangrove restoration projects in the three SES have been an example of nature-based solutions with optimal results of collaboration between sectors (n = 23). It is recognized that management is insufficient due to the lack of precision in management plans (n = 13) and the common nature of resources (n = 13). To advance on the path to good governance for the SES regions we proposed the inclusion of the local context (n = 17), the participation of all actors (n = 16), and support for community initiatives (n = 13). It has been identified that the socio-environmental challenges faced by community initiatives are mainly related to the type of governance system (n = 20) and users (n = 20). Therefore, greater inter-institutional collaboration is required to strengthen capacities for social dimensions of coastal SES.