Abstract
Sustainable fisheries in Niue, a small Pacific Island nation, represent a critical intersection of cultural heritage, environmental conservation, and economic necessity. This article explores how Niue balances traditional fishing practices with modern conservation imperatives to ensure the longevity of its marine resources for future generations. Through a situational analysis of Niue’s fisheries, a review of existing literature on sustainable fishing in small island contexts, and a discussion of challenges and opportunities, the study emphasizes the role of intergovernmental organizations and treaties in shaping conservation policies. Key recommendations include strengthening local governance, enhancing community engagement, and leveraging international cooperation through frameworks like the Niue Treaty. The article concludes that a collaborative approach, rooted in traditional knowledge and supported by global partnerships, is essential for sustainable fishery management in Niue.
Introduction
Fisheries are a cornerstone of life in Niue, a remote Pacific Island nation with a population of approximately 1,600 people. Located 2,400 kilometers northeast of New Zealand, Niue’s small landmass of 261 square kilometers is surrounded by an extensive exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of 390,000 square kilometers, rich in marine biodiversity. For centuries, the people of Niue have relied on the ocean for sustenance, cultural identity, and economic activity. Traditional fishing practices, deeply embedded in communal values and environmental stewardship, have shaped the island’s relationship with the sea. However, global pressures such as climate change, overfishing, and marine pollution threaten the sustainability of these resources, necessitating a delicate balance between preserving tradition and adopting modern conservation strategies.
The concept of sustainability in fisheries extends beyond biological stock management to include socio-economic and cultural dimensions. In Niue, where fishing is both a livelihood and a way of life, achieving sustainability requires addressing local needs alongside global environmental goals. This article examines how Niue navigates these challenges, with a focus on the interplay between traditional practices and contemporary conservation efforts. It also explores the role of intergovernmental organizations and international treaties in supporting sustainable fisheries, particularly through frameworks like the Niue Treaty on Cooperation in Fisheries Surveillance and Law Enforcement in the South Pacific Region. By analyzing the current state of fisheries in Niue, reviewing relevant literature, and discussing policy implications, this study offers recommendations to ensure the preservation of marine resources for future generations.
Situational Analysis
Niue’s marine environment is characterized by a diverse array of fish species, coral reefs, and other marine ecosystems that support both subsistence and small-scale commercial fishing. The island’s EEZ is a critical resource for tuna and other pelagic species, which are targeted by both local fishers and foreign vessels through licensing agreements. However, data on fish stock levels remain limited due to Niue’s small size and resource constraints, posing challenges for effective management. The Niue National Marine Park, established in 2013 and covering 40% of the island’s EEZ, is a significant step toward conservation, protecting marine biodiversity while allowing sustainable fishing in designated areas.
Traditional fishing in Niue is guided by cultural norms and practices passed down through generations. These include seasonal fishing restrictions, community-managed marine areas, and a deep respect for the ocean as a provider. For example, certain species are only harvested during specific times of the year to prevent overexploitation, reflecting an inherent understanding of ecological balance. However, external pressures such as climate change, which affects fish migration patterns and coral health, and the presence of illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the region, challenge these traditional systems. Additionally, the younger generations are increasingly drawn to urban centers or overseas opportunities, leading to a decline in the transmission of traditional knowledge.
Economically, fisheries contribute to Niue’s limited revenue streams, primarily through licensing fees paid by foreign vessels. While this provides a source of income, it also raises concerns about overexploitation and the marginalization of local fishers who lack the technology and capital to compete. The government of Niue, in partnership with regional bodies like the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA), has implemented policies to monitor and regulate fishing activities. These efforts are bolstered by international agreements, such as the Niue Treaty, which facilitates cooperation in fisheries surveillance and enforcement among South Pacific nations. Despite these initiatives, enforcement remains a challenge due to limited resources and the vastness of Niue’s EEZ.
Socially, fishing is integral to Niuean identity, with communal fishing expeditions reinforcing social bonds and cultural values. The loss of marine resources would not only impact food security but also erode cultural heritage. Therefore, achieving sustainability in Niue’s fisheries requires a holistic approach that addresses ecological, economic, and cultural dimensions while leveraging international support mechanisms to enhance local capacity.
Literature Review
The discourse on sustainable fisheries in small island developing states (SIDS) like Niue highlights the unique challenges faced by these nations in managing marine resources. Govan (2011) argues that community-based management systems, rooted in traditional knowledge, are often more effective in SIDS than top-down approaches, as they align with local values and foster compliance. In Niue, traditional practices such as rahui (temporary bans on fishing in certain areas) exemplify this approach, demonstrating a historical commitment to conservation long before the advent of modern fisheries science.
However, Johannes (2002) cautions that traditional systems alone cannot withstand modern pressures such as climate change and globalization, necessitating the integration of scientific methods and international cooperation. Climate change, in particular, poses a significant threat to Pacific fisheries by altering fish distribution, reducing coral reef health, and intensifying ocean acidification (Bell et al., 2013). For Niue, these changes could disrupt traditional fishing patterns and exacerbate food insecurity, particularly for coastal communities reliant on nearshore resources.
On the policy front, the role of intergovernmental organizations and treaties in supporting sustainable fisheries is well-documented. The Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency, established in 1979, has been instrumental in coordinating regional efforts to manage tuna stocks and combat IUU fishing (Hanich & Tsamenyi, 2009). The Niue Treaty, signed in 1992 and entered into force in 1993, is a landmark agreement among South Pacific nations to enhance fisheries surveillance and law enforcement (Niue Treaty, 1993). By fostering cooperation in monitoring and information sharing, the treaty helps small nations like Niue overcome capacity constraints in policing their vast EEZs. A multilateral subsidiary agreement in 2012 further strengthened the treaty’s implementation, as noted on the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website.
Recent studies also emphasize the need for adaptive management in fisheries to respond to a rapidly changing environment. A 2024 article in npj Ocean Sustainability argues that current sustainability standards are insufficient for addressing the impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss, advocating for principles that minimize ecological impacts while supporting community resilience (Rethinking Sustainability, 2024). For Niue, this suggests a need to revisit existing policies to incorporate climate adaptation strategies and biodiversity regeneration into fisheries management plans.
Additionally, the social and cultural dimensions of fisheries sustainability are gaining attention in academic literature. Pomeroy et al. (2016) highlight the importance of incorporating local livelihoods and cultural values into fishery management plans to ensure equitable outcomes. In Niue, where fishing is a cultural practice as much as an economic activity, policies that fail to account for these dimensions risk alienating communities and undermining conservation efforts.
Despite the wealth of research on sustainable fisheries, there remains a gap in localized studies specific to Niue. Much of the existing literature focuses on broader Pacific trends, with limited data on Niue’s unique socio-ecological context. This article seeks to address this gap by synthesizing available information and drawing connections between local practices and global frameworks.
Discussion
The sustainability of Niue’s fisheries hinges on the ability to balance traditional practices with modern conservation needs. Traditional knowledge offers valuable insights into resource management, as evidenced by historical practices of rahui and seasonal harvesting that prevent overexploitation. However, these systems are under strain from external pressures such as climate change, which alters marine ecosystems in ways that traditional knowledge alone cannot address. Rising sea temperatures, for instance, affect the spawning grounds of key species like tuna, while ocean acidification threatens the coral reefs that support coastal fisheries. Integrating traditional practices with scientific research and technology is therefore critical to adapting to these changes.
Economically, Niue’s reliance on foreign fishing licenses poses both opportunities and risks. While licensing fees provide much-needed revenue, they can lead to overfishing and marginalize local fishers who lack access to advanced equipment. This dynamic underscores the importance of equitable resource allocation and the protection of nearshore fisheries for subsistence use. Community-based management, supported by government policies, can help ensure that local fishers are not sidelined by industrial operations. Moreover, value-added activities such as fish processing and eco-tourism linked to sustainable fishing could diversify income sources and reduce dependence on raw resource extraction.
From a governance perspective, Niue’s participation in regional and international frameworks offers significant advantages. The Niue Treaty, for instance, enhances the island’s capacity to combat IUU fishing by facilitating cooperation with neighboring states and sharing surveillance resources. Similarly, the FFA provides technical assistance and policy guidance, helping Niue align its national strategies with regional goals for sustainable tuna management. These partnerships are essential for a small nation with limited resources, enabling Niue to address transboundary issues such as migratory fish stocks and illegal fishing that cannot be tackled in isolation.
However, the effective implementation of these agreements faces challenges. Limited funding and personnel hinder Niue’s ability to monitor its vast EEZ, while discrepancies in enforcement capacity among treaty signatories can create loopholes for IUU fishing. Strengthening the multilateral mechanisms of the Niue Treaty, as reinforced by the 2012 subsidiary agreement, could address these gaps by standardizing surveillance protocols and increasing resource sharing. Additionally, Niue’s recent diplomatic ties with countries like the Philippines, as reported in 2022 by Manila Bulletin, signal potential for new partnerships in sustainable fisheries, further amplifying international support.
Socially and culturally, the decline in traditional fishing knowledge among younger generations is a pressing concern. As urbanization and emigration draw youth away from Niue, there is a risk of losing the cultural practices that have historically sustained the island’s fisheries. Educational programs that integrate traditional knowledge with modern conservation techniques could help bridge this gap, ensuring that future generations value and maintain their marine heritage.
Finally, the global discourse on marine biodiversity, as highlighted in recent studies like the 2025 article in npj Ocean Sustainability on the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, points to the interconnectedness of fisheries and broader conservation goals. While the BBNJ Agreement focuses on areas beyond national jurisdiction, its principles of sustainable use and biodiversity protection are relevant to Niue’s efforts to manage its EEZ. Aligning local policies with such global frameworks could position Niue as a leader in marine conservation among SIDS.
Recommendations
Based on the analysis, the following recommendations are proposed to enhance the sustainability of Niue’s fisheries while preserving traditional practices and leveraging international support:
- Strengthen Community-Based Management: Empower local communities to lead fishery management through formalized structures that integrate traditional practices like rahui with scientific monitoring. This can be supported by government funding for community training and resource allocation.
- Enhance Monitoring and Enforcement: Increase investment in surveillance technologies such as satellite tracking and drones to monitor fishing activities in Niue’s EEZ. Collaboration with FFA and Niue Treaty partners can help share costs and expertise.
- Promote Education and Cultural Preservation: Develop educational programs in schools and community centers to teach younger generations about traditional fishing practices and their role in conservation. These programs should blend indigenous knowledge with modern science to create a holistic understanding of sustainability.
- Diversify Economic Opportunities: Support value-added activities such as fish processing and marine-based tourism to reduce dependence on fish stock exploitation. Policies should prioritize local entrepreneurs to ensure equitable benefits.
- Leverage International Cooperation: Strengthen Niue’s engagement with intergovernmental organizations like the FFA and treaties like the Niue Treaty to access technical assistance, funding, and regional data on fish stocks. Niue should also explore new partnerships, such as with the Philippines, to exchange best practices in sustainable fisheries.
- Adopt Climate-Adaptive Strategies: Incorporate climate change adaptation into fishery management plans by identifying vulnerable species and habitats and adjusting fishing quotas accordingly. This requires collaboration with climate research institutions to access up-to-date data.
- Advocate for Global Biodiversity Goals: Align Niue’s conservation policies with international frameworks like the BBNJ Agreement to ensure coherence between local actions and global objectives, positioning Niue as a model for SIDS in marine stewardship.
Conclusion
Sustainable fisheries in Niue represent a complex challenge that requires balancing cultural traditions, economic needs, and environmental imperatives. The island’s reliance on marine resources for sustenance and identity underscores the urgency of preserving fish stocks for future generations. While traditional practices offer a strong foundation for conservation, modern pressures such as climate change and IUU fishing necessitate the integration of scientific methods and international cooperation. Intergovernmental frameworks like the Niue Treaty and organizations like the FFA provide critical support for Niue’s efforts, enhancing its capacity to manage vast marine territories despite limited resources.
The path forward lies in a collaborative approach that empowers local communities, leverages global partnerships, and prioritizes education to sustain cultural practices. By implementing the recommendations outlined—strengthening community management, enhancing enforcement, diversifying economic opportunities, and aligning with global biodiversity goals—Niue can safeguard its fisheries while honoring its heritage. The success of these efforts will not only secure the island’s marine resources but also serve as an inspiration for other small island nations facing similar challenges. Sustainable fisheries in Niue are not just a local issue; they are a microcosm of the broader struggle to balance human needs with planetary health in an era of unprecedented environmental change.
References
- Bell, J. D., Ganachaud, A., Gehrke, P. C., Griffiths, S. P., Hobday, A. J., Hoegh-Guldberg, O., … & Waycott, M. (2013). Mixed responses of tropical Pacific fisheries and aquaculture to climate change. Nature Climate Change, 3(6), 591-599.
- Govan, H. (2011). Good coastal management practices in the Pacific: Experiences from the field. SPREP Report. Apia, Samoa: Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme.
- Hanich, Q., & Tsamenyi, M. (2009). Managing fisheries and corruption in the Pacific Islands region. Marine Policy, 33(2), 386-392.
- Johannes, R. E. (2002). The renaissance of community-based marine resource management in Oceania. Annual Review of Ecology and Systematics, 33(1), 317-340.
- Niue Treaty on Cooperation in Fisheries Surveillance and Law Enforcement in the South Pacific Region. (1993). Signed at Honiara, 9 July 1992; Entered into force 20 May 1993. Retrieved from SEDAC.
- Pomeroy, R., Parks, J., Pollnac, R., Campson, T., Genio, E., Marlessy, C., … & Holle, E. (2016). Fishers’ perceptions of livelihood change and marine resource governance. Marine Policy, 62, 102-114.
- Rethinking sustainability of marine fisheries for a fast-changing planet. (2024). npj Ocean Sustainability, 3(1), 78. Retrieved from Nature.
- “Our fish are not your marine biodiversity”: Tensions in integrating fisheries into the BBNJ Agreement. (2025). npj Ocean Sustainability, 4(1), 142. Retrieved from Nature.
- PH’s diplomatic ties with Niue augur well for sustainable fisheries. (2022, October 1). Manila Bulletin. Retrieved from Manila Bulletin.
