Paradoxical livelihoods in an open resource area: trawler and blue swimming crab fisher dynamic conflict constellation in Tiworo Strait

Many studies have shown that trawling has been a major cause of marine resource depletion and can also be antagonistic to small-scale fishers. This paper describes our serendipitous finding of a dynamic constellation of user group conflict between trawlers and small-scale blue swimming crab (BSC) fishers in Tiworo Strait, Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia. The research was conducted from 29 August to 14 September 2020. We collected the data through a Focus Group Discussion (FGD), a survey with 260 respondents, and in-depth interviews with several key informants in three coastal communities in Tiworo Strait: (1) Tondasi Village; (2) Balu Island Santiri Village; and (3) Tiga Island Bero Village. By using qualitative and quantitative data analysis, this study reveals a unique conflict constellation which involves Sama-Bagai identity, livelihood interests, and territory. Interestingly, we found that Sama Bajo BSC fishers used their social capital and identity as boat-dwellers for combating the trawlers and resolving the open conflict. From these research findings, we recommend diverting trawl fishers to more environmentally friendly fishing gear, such as gill nets and handlines, to support the sustainability of small-scale BSC fisher livelihoods. We also suggest taking into account the local social norms and identity as the base of conflict resolution among fishers.