A regional academic says culture and tradition needs to be valued and incorporated into ocean use policies in American Samoa.
Dr JoAnna Poblete in Pago Pago to share her research on histories of ocean policy. Photo: RNZI / Fili Sagapolutele
Claremont Graduate University associate professor, JoAnna Poblete, was conducting study and research for a book on the histories of ocean policy in the territory.
Dr Poblete has visited Pago Pago and discussed the preliminary conclusions from her work.
She says the purpose of the project is to look at how federal government initiatives in areas such as fisheries, the national marine sanctuary and tuna canning have impacted the region.
"Bascially what I'm finding is that when policies integrate Samoan culture and Samoan values that they are more effective."
Dr JoAnna Poblete also says the development of regulations with active participation of all groups can lead to greater community support and long-term success.
