Area of Study: fijian sharks

Vineeta (Vini) Gupta is investigating efforts to protect shark populations in Fiji, including Scalloped Hammerheads and Bull Sharks. In Fiji, Indigenous communities not only hold traditional ownership over land and sea but also view certain sharks as totem animals, deeply embedded in their cultural heritage. Despite their ecological and cultural importance, these sharks face increasing threats from overfishing and habitat loss. By working with partners such as IUCN Oceania, the University of the South Pacific, and the Fiji Shark Lab, Vini’s project explores how the IUCN’s Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) can provide a sustainable conservation framework. Respecting local qoliqoli fishing rights, this initiative aims to establish marine protected areas that balance conservation with sustainable use. While ecotourism raises awareness, MSP ensures long-term protection by regulating fishing and reducing human impact, safeguarding both shark populations and the livelihoods of local communities.