Human Migration and Resource use in Sulawesi Fishing Communities

Abstract

The relationship between human population changes and the use of coastal resources in several communities in North Sulawesi, Indonesia is examined using a combination of demographic and econometric analysis. The study area has some of Indonesia's richest marine biodiversity and a number of important coastal resources that support the livelihood of a large number of fishing communities. Following focus groups and pretesting, direct interview surveys were conducted in 1999 with 601 households whose primary occupation was fishing. Demographic analysis reveals that migration is the major driver of human population growth in the area. Econometric analysis is used to explore the effects of migration and other socio economic variables on fishing activity in the area. Recommendations for resource managers include greater monitoring of resource impacts of migrants and increased involvement of local communities in the development of regional fishing policies.