A new law on oceans now formally recognizes traditional practices and the authority of chiefs in managing and protecting marine resources.

The bill was passed by Parliament during the 2nd Ordinary Session held earlier this month.

Traditional methods for managing reefs and marine life, such as fish and shellfish, have long been practiced across all islands of Vanuatu.

Part (c), Section 15 of the Oceans Act, The law clearly defines 15 jurisdictional areas and assigns management responsibilities as follows:

The inshore and coastal jurisdictional area is managed by existing traditional entities, also in close collaboration with the Department.

The offshore jurisdictional area is managed by the National Government.

The inshore and intermediate jurisdictional area is managed by the Provincial Government, in close collaboration with the Department of Oceans.

Minister of Oceans, Jack Norris Kalmet, presented the bill:

“It is the tabu zone that manages the traditional entities and prohibits activities, and this law ensures that traditional rules are legally respected by the people, including foreign vessels. Chiefs and communities have long used nakamals to place tabu on reefs, but these practices were not previously guided by legislation. This bill empowers our chiefs and ensures tabu zones are guided under this Act.”

Across many communities, chiefs already enforce these rules through various customary practices. Under the new law, breaking a tabu will now carry fines in addition to traditional enforcement by the nakamal.