EDI principles have been developed, agreed upon, and committed to by the Partnership through engaging in serious dialogue about the team’s and project’s values. These principles have been applied in the selection of case studies, the development of methodologies and involvement of partners, participants, stakeholders, right- and knowledge- holders in the research. This is reflected foremost in our overarching goal to identify equitable, diverse and inclusive solution options and pathways that respect local needs and context to achieve ‘desirable’ futures. Our EDI principles are also upheld by the diverse background of the team (cultural, geographical, disciplinary, gender, perspectives on FCB).
To embrace the team’s diversity and facilitate inclusiveness, the Partnership chose to focus on specific research questions and case studies that are relevant to diverse social-economic and knowledge contexts internationally (5 case studies from both the Global South and North across 4 continents). The case studies are led by our local partners who understand the local knowledge demand and anthropogenic histories, and can more effectively overcome barriers for local participation, such as languages and access to meetings. Our methodology focuses strongly on facilitating stake-, knowledge- and right- holders’ participation, and engaging in diverse knowledge practices, which is key to effective solutions to FCB challenges.
We will actively encourage inclusivity in our research through engagement meetings to counter the under-representation of gender and racialized groups, while also recognizing that local experience and social norms will designate who has authority to speak on specific matters (e.g., clan-based fishing rights).
