| dc.description | The use of scientific information for evidence-based decision-making is a critical component in addressing marine environmental issues. However, ensuring that the “right” information is available for addressing these issues can be a challenge as this information often resides in different organizations with different management mandates. Consequently, many governmental organizations have utilized a range of approaches, including technical advisory committees, and working groups, to promote the development of robust solutions and recommendations for coastal and ocean management. This study examined the role of multiple stakeholders participating in technical working groups designed to assist in marine fisheries decision-making in Belize. Through interviews with three working groups – The National Hicatee Conservation Network, the Spawning Aggregation Working Group, and the Managed Access Working Group – and decision-makers in the Belize Fisheries Department, the processes of information production and pathways for policy uptake were investigated. The complexities of the science-policy interface associated with each working group were revealed. Common enablers and barriers related to knowledge exchange were identified. Guided by the Input-Process-Output model, a criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of applying a working group strategy was developed, and recommendations for improving knowledge exchange, for example knowledge brokering, at the science-policy interfaces are presented. | en_US |
