Women in Scottish fisheries: literature review

1. Introduction

This report is the product of a literature review on women in fisheries undertaken as part of a 13 week internship with Marine Scotland. Its findings underline the importance of acknowledging the existing presence of women across the industry and considering how creating a more attractive and supportive environment for women, more attuned to safety and work-life balance, might direct us towards achieving a more equitable, and sustainable industry overall. Women have participated in Scottish fisheries throughout history, playing various important yet underappreciated roles in an apparently male-dominated industry. Recent studies and reports point towards the need to recognise existing contributions of women in fishing communities, and the importance of creating a more equitable culture which could make the industry a safe, fair workplace for women who wish to enter it (Women-Fisheries, 2020; Gustavsson, 2019; Watch, 2020).

In order to seek ways in which women who wish to pursue a career in fisheries can be better supported, this report synthesises recent research by undertaking a literature review on the topic. By looking at case studies and examples of good practice from Scotland and beyond, alongside existing government strategies, the report provides insights into challenges and opportunities presented for women in the Scottish fishing industry and fishing communities. Furthermore, it considers what other characteristics, alongside gender, contribute to inequality in fisheries to emphasise the need for an intersectional approach.