Database of Fisheries Governance Documents for Gender Equity Analysis

This database compiles national-level fisheries governance documents from 20 coastal countries across Africa, the Caribbean, Oceania, Southeast Asia, and Southern Asia. Each entry includes key attributes (e.g., publication year, legal updates, and language), with hyperlinks to the original text when available. Documents were sourced from official databases (FAOLEX, ECOLEX, SSF-LEX, SPC ReefLex) as well as through direct communication with organizations and individuals. The database was developed to support a systematic analysis of national fisheries governance documents, assessing how gender considerations and women’s empowerment are addressed in the sector. The findings of this analysis are presented through accompanying country fact sheets and governance one-pagers, which can be accessed on the Ocean Risk project website: https://oceanrisk.earth/fact-sheets/. This effort aims to inform gender-responsive policy planning by identifying successful examples of gender integration and understanding how these approaches can be adapted across diverse policy contexts. Documents were selected based on their specificity to fisheries, with attention to management, regulation, and access across the value chain. This resource is intended to support researchers, policymakers, and practitioners interested in fisheries governance, gender mainstreaming, legal reform, or comparative analysis. This database was co-developed with reseachers and practitioners knowledgeable of fisheries governance in each focal country. These contributors are credited as data curators. As a living resource, the database is updated as new, relevant instruments are identified. The accompanying country fact sheets and governance one-pagers are based on a defined analysis snapshot date, meaning only documents identified up to that point were included in the analysis. Documents added after this snapshot are included in the database but may not be reflected in the published outputs.While we aimed to build a comprehensive database, some relevant documents may still be missing. We welcome contributions to help address any gaps by suggesting additional fisheries governance documents for inclusion. To submit a document for consideration, please complete the following form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeco5QtdzAdoD8Uf5ddpc50la9CIVDzlZO4Z077GqNB89VhqA/viewform This project was supported by the Ocean Risk and Resilience Action Alliance (ORRAA) and funded by the UK through the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs.