Moving towards an ecosystem approach to fisheries management in the Coral Triangle region

Applying an EAFM is considered the preferred option and best practice under the CTI-CFF for the long-term sustainability of fisheries and the ecosystem services provided to society (e.g., food security, livelihoods, economic security, coastal protection, human health and wellbeing). This paper presents progress of the six CTI countries toward implementation of an EAFM. The results of a country analysis of the existing institutional, policy and legal frameworks in terms of the ability of each country to align with EAFM principles is presented. Challenges to effective implementation of an EAFM in the Coral Triangle region are discussed and recommendations to overcome some of the key challenges are provided. •Applying an EAFM is considered the preferred option and best practice under the CTICFF.•There is yet no EAFM-specific legislation in any of the six CTI countries.•Each country has laws and policies that provide support for the guiding principles of an EAFM.•Six countries are implementing an EAFM but in an incremental manner.