Comparative analysis of institutional and legal basis of marine and coastal management in the East Asian region

Most people in the East Asian region live in coastal zones, competing for limited space and marine resources in order to gain economic development. Conflicts between stakeholders and depredation of the ecosystem are frequent. Therefore, effective marine and coastal management (MCM) is necessary in this region. This study comparatively analyses institutional and legal basis of the MCM in Japan, South Korea, China and Taiwan within the areas of state organisations, non-state organisations and legal basis using 12 performance indicators. The study show that there is a trend towards establishing specific high-level marine affairs committees presided by the prime minister or his deputy supported by human and financial resources will enable MCM plans to be implemented more effectively. In addition, a co-management approach in MCM has been advocated in recent years in all the countries analysed, with the exception of China. The management approach for ocean governance has gradually transformed from a total top-down approach to a dual-directional (both top-down and bottom-up). Finally, the importance of the collective consideration of the legal basis, state organisations and non-organisations because of their interactive functional dynamics, has been emphasised.

► We analyses institutional and legal basis of MCM in four East Asian Countries. ► Co-management approach in MCM has been advocated in all the countries analysed. ► Ocean management approach transformed from top-down to dual-directional. ► Legal basis, state organisations and non-organisations need to be considered. ► MCM plans should be monitored, evaluated and adjusted regularly.