Human Dimensions Working Group

Co-Chairs

Dr Hollie Booth | based in the United Kingdom (Northern Europe Region member)
Dr Divya Karnad | based in India (Indian Ocean Region member)

Introduction

Understanding how people’s knowledge, values, and behaviors influence and can be affected by decisions and measures related to the conservation of sharks is critical. Considering human dimensions in conservation is needed to increase support of local communities and relevant stakeholders, avoid conflicts, and ensure the success of conservation initiatives. This Working Group recognizes the need to identify and include these considerations as we move forward in tackling complex situations at local scales.

The tasks of this Working Group will include

Facilitate and conduct virtual training on the human dimensions of shark conservation;
Organize an online seminar series for SSG members to share their work/case studies relating to human dimensions of shark conservation;
Compile a repository of key papers and resources on understanding and addressing human dimensions/using socio-economic methods for shark conservation; and
Develop simple guidelines on asking and answering management (and policy)-relevant questions about the human dimensions of shark conservation.

Hollie Booth

Dr. Divya Karnad

‘It is increasingly recognized that tackling conservation problems requires understanding human behaviour and involving local communities. Incorporating human dimension is crucial for achieving shark conservation, where fisheries, including those of sharks, deliver social welfare outcomes such as income and food security for billions of people. We’re delighted to join forces for this innovative and important working group within the IUCN SSG. We hope to use our experiences from academia and conservation practice to inspire and mentor SSG members across the globe to adopt inter-disciplinary approaches to shark conservation. Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions, and we look forward to working with all of you over the coming four years!’

Hollie Booth and Dr. Divya Karnad

Crash Course in the Human Dimensions of Shark Conservation

Day 1 | Tuesday, July 27, 2021
Human dimensions: what, why and how?
YouTube | Vimeo

Day 2 | Thursday, July 29, 2021
Overview of social science research methods for shark conservation
YouTube | Vimeo

Day 3 | Tuesday, August 3, 2021
Case studies on human dimensions applications: understanding the socio-ecological situation
YouTube | Vimeo

Day 4 | Wednesday, August 4, 2021
Case study applications: Designing Interventions & Changing Behaviour
YouTube | Vimeo

Day 5 | Thursday, August 5, 2021
Future directions for Human Dimensions of Shark Conservation
YouTube | Vimeo

Explore the other IUCN SSC Shark Specialist Group Working Groups: