Date of Award

1980

Degree Type

Major Paper

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Marine Affairs

Abstract

The consequences of the inevitable acceptance of extended jurisdiction and its impact on the development and management of fisheries in Western Samoa are considered within the framework of the principles outlined at the United Nations Third Conference of the Law of the Sea - Revised Informal Composite Negotiating Text for the Eighth Session 1979. It is pointed out that with the passage of the 200-mile exclusive economic zone, Western Samoa not only has the opportunity to benefit from the harvesting of fish under its jurisdiction, but also must accept the responsibility of ensuring that the resource is rationally managed, and that the yields are maintained at optimum levels. Considering the lack of technology, the lackof experience in fisheries management, and in surveillanceand enforcement capabilities, it is considered that regional as well as international arrangements are required. Such arrangements are discussed as possible approaches to problems created by the new regime. The development of fisheries in the exclusive economic zone of Western Samoa is also discussed. It is suggested that the development strategy to be taken is one which gives priority to the expansion and improvement of the inshore fishery to areas further offshore, while at the same time gaining maximum benefit from the offshore resources. The fishing industry in Western Samoa is described and employed as a background for this study.

Download

Share

COinS