SEAFDEC, Training Department (SEAFDEC/TD) has implemented the project on Small-scale Fisheries Management for Better Livelihood and Fisheries Resources and conducted the project activity on socioeconomic data collection to understand the current status and gain better understanding of the situation in the pilot learning sites in Ranong and Krabi Province, Thailand, and Kawthaung, Myanmar. Moreover, the project initiated to develop the “Handbook for socioeconomic data collection in small-scale fisheries” to gather key elements of socio-economic data collection and outline the process for data collection in small-scale fisheries.

The two Core Expert meetings were held on 22–23 August and 11 December 2024 to develop this Handbook, these meetings brought together regional and national experts including academic institutions: Kasetsart University and Prince of Songkla University and government agencies from Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries Indonesia, Department of Fisheries Thailand and SEAFDEC Secretariat and SEAFDEC/TD, to establish a robust framework for collecting and analyzing socioeconomic data from coastal and inland small-scale fisheries. The key elements for socioeconomics were discussed, which composed of livelihoods, gender roles, demographic data, community participation, and the challenges posed by environmental changes. The importance of incorporating modern tools such as the Kobo Toolbox was addressed to enhance data collection efficiency and improve the management of small-scale fisheries.

The handbook provides step-by-step methodologies for study design, data collection, and analysis, along with sample surveys, offering practical instructions on setting objectives, developing tools, conducting fieldwork, and communicate the results. By addressing critical factors such as income patterns, fishing operations, and financial access, the handbook aims to support sustainable fisheries management and improve the socioeconomic conditions of fishing communities throughout Southeast Asia. These initiative meetings represent a significant step toward socioeconomic data collection framework to support the fisheries management plan to strengthening livelihoods and promoting sustainability in small-scale fisheries.

Training Department, Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center. (20225). Report of Core Expert Meeting on the Development of the Handbook for Socioeconomic Data Collection in Small-scale Fisheries.