Eastern Tropical Pacific

WildAid, in partnership with Global Affairs Canada, launched a groundbreaking project in 2024 aimed at strengthening marine law enforcement and protecting the biodiversity of the Eastern Tropical Pacific (ETP).  This initiative will work to enhance the protection and sustainable use of marine resources across four countries in the region: Ecuador, Costa Rica, Colombia, and Panama. The project also includes joint training activities with Peru and Mexico. 

The project, Strengthening Marine Enforcement in the Eastern Tropical Pacific Seascape, will improve monitoring, control, and surveillance (MCS) capacities, bolster regional cooperation, and promote the role of both men and women in coastal communities in marine conservation efforts. The initiative comes with the support of Global Affairs Canada and WildAid, a U.S.-based nonprofit organization. 

The Ecological Significance of the Eastern Tropical Pacific 

The ETP is a vibrant and diverse marine ecosystem, vital for the reproduction, migration, and distribution of wildlife such as tuna, sharks, sea turtles, whales, and marine birds. The region includes an “Ecologically and Biologically Significant Area” designated by the Convention on Biological Diversity, as well as four UNESCO Marine World Heritage Sites: the Galapagos Archipelago in Ecuador, Cocos Island in Costa Rica, Coiba Island in Panama, and Malpelo Island in Colombia. 

Despite its ecological significance, the ETP is under increasing threat from illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. These activities endanger the region’s biodiversity and the livelihoods of coastal communities that rely on healthy marine ecosystems. Through this project, WildAid and its partners aim to counter these threats by working closely with local governments and institutions to strengthen enforcement measures in marine protected areas (MPAs) and surrounding waters. 

Project Goals and Collaboration with Global Affairs Canada 

The Strengthening Marine Enforcement in the Eastern Tropical Pacific Seascape project will focus on: 

• Enhancing MCS capacity in Ecuador, Costa Rica, Colombia, Panama, Peru, and Mexico by providing training, equipment, and mentorship to law enforcement personnel. 
• Increasing integration and empowerment of women in marine resource management and law enforcement, with pilot programs in Ecuador and Costa Rica. 
• Supporting the coordination and cooperation of enforcement agencies across borders, particularly through the Eastern Tropical Marine Corridor Initiative (CMAR). 

Global Affairs Canada, through its International Development Assistance Program, will provide essential oversight and support for the project. In addition to financial contributions, Canada will help assess project progress, facilitate stakeholder consultations, and ensure that key priorities such as gender equality, environmental sustainability, and human rights are integrated throughout the implementation process. 

“The partnership with Global Affairs Canada allows us to address some of the most critical challenges facing marine biodiversity in the ETP,” said Aldo Simone, WildAid’s Marine Program Acting Director. “By working together with governments and local communities, including women in leadership roles, we can improve enforcement, protect vital ecosystems, and ensure sustainable livelihoods for future generations.” 

Expected Outcomes and Community Impact 

The project is designed to benefit over 15,000 coastal residents and 400 law enforcement personnel in the six target countries. Direct beneficiaries include Indigenous Peoples and other communities whose livelihoods rely on healthy marine ecosystems. Through educational outreach and capacity-building efforts, the project will empower these communities to actively participate in marine protection efforts. 

Key outcomes include: 

• Increased effectiveness of maritime law enforcement, leading to better detection and reduction of illegal fishing activities. 
• Strengthened regional cooperation between enforcement agencies and governments to ensure a more unified approach to conservation regulations. 
• Greater involvement of women in the protection and sustainable use of marine resources, creating a model for gender inclusion in coastal conservation efforts. 

WildAid’s Blueprint for Marine Protection 

At the core of the project is WildAid’s Blueprint for Marine Protection, a comprehensive adaptable framework that addresses five key components essential to effective marine enforcement: Surveillance & Enforcement, Training & Mentorship, Policies & Consequences, Community Engagement, and Consistent Funding. 

By leveraging this adaptable blueprint, WildAid aims to: 

• Ensure a stronger physical presence in the ETP’s waters, capable of deterring illegal fishing activities. 
• Foster long-term compliance by providing expert technical advisory, making marine protection laws more actionable. 
• Explore and implement advanced technological solutions to act as a force multiplier, scaling conservation efforts to a regional level. 

A Commitment to a Thriving Eastern Tropical Pacific 

WildAid remains deeply committed to the long-term protection of the Eastern Tropical Pacific Seascape. This region is not only a critical biodiversity hotspot but also vital to the livelihoods of tens of thousands of people whose well-being depends on healthy marine ecosystems. Through this project and our continued partnerships with governments and communities, we aim to help our local partners to protect these waters, enhance enforcement, and promote sustainable development for the future.