A “new normality” for small-scale artisanal Fishers? The case of unregulated fisheries during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Bahía Blanca estuary (SW Atlantic Ocean)

Abstract

The current COVID-19 pandemic is causing health and economic crises worldwide, but consequences are worse for those emerging countries with poor sanitary conditions struggling against economic recessions. Small-scale artisanal fishers (SSAF) should be considered among the “essential workers” since they provide food services; however, the COVID-19 might have altered the normal livelihood and reduced people economic incomes in an already marginalized sector. This situation highlights the fishers' vulnerability, derived from changes in fish stocks caused by climate change, pollution, overharvesting, and informal work (illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing). Therefore, the so-called “new normality” raises big questions about the management of coastal areas and fisheries in developing countries. As a study case, we proposed exploring SSAF from an Argentinian estuary, the Bahía Blanca estuary (SW Atlantic Ocean). Most of them are unregulated after a reconversion program carried out by the local government in 2012. After reviewing the current COVID-19 legislation for coastal fisheries and having virtual encounters with SSAF, we observed they are struggling against the economic crisis caused by the pandemic. According to our observations, imperative measures must be taken to prevent fisheries collapse in the area. In this work, we present a reference point for the post-pandemic management of fisheries that could be considered for emerging public policies.