Galapagos Conservancy
December 2006

The Local Population of Galapagos Speaks Out:
Introducing "FUNDAR Galapagos"

While external factors are significant, it is clear that the future of Galapagos will be determined largely by attitudes, decisions, and actions of the local population. There is increasing talk among conservation organizations and local leaders about the need to arrive at a shared vision for Galapagos, strengthen local leadership, foster a culture of conservation, and develop an economy that is consistent within the limits of a fragile island ecosystem.

Over the past year, there have been several positive signs that such a culture is emerging. Beginning in 2005, a grass-roots commission of Galapagos residents, backed by a local anti-corruption civic group, examined the issue of sport fishing in Galapagos. They concluded that illegal sport fishing was taking place and that local benefits from these activities were limited. The group named the individuals and businesses involved and urged local authorities to enforce laws which prohibit sport fishing until regulations are in place. The commission stressed the importance of ensuring that such regulations maximize benefits for the local population.

More recently, a group of more than 80 Galapagos residents developed a document to share with presidential candidates that outlined priority issues facing Galapagos, as well as suggested strategies for action. This document demonstrates a strong understanding of the importance of community participation, limiting migration, respecting the limits of an island ecosystem, and educational reform.

These activities were facilitated by a Galapagos-born organization, Fundar Galapagos, which works with Galapagos residents in support of integrated development and conservation of the Galapagos archipelago.

Summary documents, available only in Spanish at present, are available below:

Proposal for Candidates 2006    Sport Fishing Report 2006

Contact: comments@galapagos.org