Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue on the National Action Plan for Coral Reef Conservation
Participants at the Coral Reef Rescue Project Workshop.
SUVA, Fiji – In a significant step toward safeguarding Fiji’s marine ecosystems, the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, with support from Wildlife Conservation Society, convened a National Hub for Coral Reef Conservation (NHCRC) Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue today to advance the formulation of Fiji’s National Action Plan for Coral Reef Conservation (NAPCRC).
Held in Suva, the dialogue brought together a diverse range of stakeholders—including government representatives, marine scientists, conservation organizations, traditional leaders, and community-based practitioners—to provide input into the country’s overarching coral reef conservation strategy.
The NAPCRC is envisioned as Fiji’s central advisory committee for guiding coral reef conservation efforts, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity, science-based planning, and community leadership. The workshop served as a platform for refining draft thematic areas that had previously been developed through consultations facilitated by the NHCRC.
“This platform provides a unique opportunity to unpack critical issues and shape a national plan informed by those doing the real work on the ground,” said Dr. Sivendra Michael, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change. “The diverse knowledge in this room—from policy experts to community leaders—is what will make this Action Plan practical, resilient, and genuinely Fijian.”
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Dr.Sivendra Michael delivering his speech at the Coral Reef Rescue Project Workshop.
Dr. Michael noted the critical need for clarity around legal mandates, especially concerning marine species trade, environmental impact assessments, and baseline ecological data collection. He stressed that many existing policies lack mechanisms for consistent data-sharing and community feedback, resulting in a disconnect between national planning and local realities.
“Let’s not lock ourselves into timelines—let’s lock ourselves into a process that is inclusive and well-informed,” Dr. Michael emphasized. “If we want this Action Plan to work, it must be grounded in what communities know, what scientists have proven, and what government can realistically support.”
Discussions also highlighted the role of technology, such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and 3D coral mapping, to bridge communication between national agencies and communities. Such innovations, paired with traditional ecological knowledge, are seen as essential tools for strengthening marine spatial planning and decision-making.
As the workshop concluded, stakeholders reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing coral reef conservation as a national priority, not only for biodiversity protection but also for the health, food security, and economic well-being of Fijian communities.
The Ministry will continue to lead the coordination of follow-up consultations through the NHCRC to finalize the NAPCRC, with the goal of presenting a unified, community-driven strategy at international forums later this year.