A Sisyphean Task? The Danish Experience with Taming the ITQ System 2007-2018 (Troels J. Hegland, Kristen Ounanian, Mathilde Højrup Autzen and Jesper Raakjær)

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Abstract
With a core objective of reducing overall capacity, starting in 2007 Denmark implemented a particular variation of ITQs in its demersal fisheries: the ‘vessel quota-share’ system. This paper provides a retrospective on the intentions of key provisions in the Danish market-based fisheries management system since its implementation in 2007 and discusses central themes of concern. Experiences (e.g. from Iceland and Alaska) have shown that structural adjustments following the transition to a market-based system can be particularly problematic for smaller vessels and associated communities. Recognizing these experiences with ITQs and aiming to get the best from the system while avoiding its worst side effects, the Danish vessel quota-share system included a number of provisions to curtail the consolidating effects of market-based management. These included a cap on concentration, a requirement that the fishing quota-shares follow the vessel, an ‘active fisherman’ requirement, and—last but not least—a particular scheme allocating extra shares for smaller vessels conducting near-shore fisheries. However, in recent years, evidence has mounted suggesting that the system has failed in taming the market; either because of the inherent dynamics of the system, due to insufficient curtailing provisions, or due to mismanagement of existing provisions (or these in combination). As a result, calls of concern from the public have emerged questioning the equity and distribution of fishing access and resultant wealth. A central question—relevant to other nations grappling with ITQs—is whether or how a system/scheme can exist in parallel to a ‘pure’ market-based management system. More concretely, how can authorities provide effective provisions for small-scale fishers within a system intended to consolidate the fleet in the name of economic efficiency? To answer these questions, data on the development of the fleet structure have been scrutinized, and relevant policy-documents and legislation have been reviewed together with external policy evaluations.

Periode	26 jun. 2019
Begivenhedstitel	People and the Sea X
Begivenhedstype	Konference
Placering	Amsterdam, HollandVis på kort