The Diagnosis of Integrated Coastal Management in Venezuela

Abstract

The implementation of Integrated Coastal Zones Management (iczm) is presented as a necessity in Venezuela, given the strategic importance of its extensive coasts. This approach seeks to reconcile economic development with environmental preservation, being a practice adopted in various countries to face the challenges and take advantage of the opportunities associated with the management of coastal areas.

In the context of Venezuela, a Caribbean nation, significant challenges arise in the management of its coastal zones, including exposure to extreme climate events, coastal erosion, and the degradation of coastal ecosystems.

The proposed methodology, based on the Decalogue of the Ibero-American Network of Integrated Coastal Management (red ibermar), provides a solid framework to evaluate the Integrated Management of Coastal Zones in Venezuela. This decalogue is based on key principles that act as an essential tool to identify areas for improvement in the management of the country’s coastal spaces. By examining key aspects through this methodology, the effectiveness of iczm in Venezuela can be enhanced and the resilience of its coastal ecosystems strengthened in the face of emerging challenges.

Keywords: Coastal areas, Venezuela, coastal management, decalogue, citizen participation.