Guidebook for Assessing and Improving Social Equity in Marine Conservation

A guidebook providing practical frameworks and tools for assessing and improving social equity in marine conservation initiatives including MPAs, OECMs, and other conservation programs.Grounded in a six-dimension equity framework covering recognitional, procedural, management, environmental, distributional, and contextual/structural equity, the guidebook offers three assessment options of varying resource intensity:

• Rapid Equity Assessment (survey-based, single or small group of managers)
• Stakeholders and Rightsholders Equity Assessment (broader participatory survey of affected groups)
• Co-produced and Customized Equity Assessment (collaborative, participatory co-development of equity indicators with communities)

Each option includes specific tools, guidance, and considerations for preparation, implementation, and follow-up. The guidebook is intended for marine conservation managers, practitioners, researchers, and decision-makers globally.