What does integrated ecosystem assessment mean to policy-makers and scientists working in the Atlantic? Implications for ocean science diplomacy

An important goal of Integrated Ecosystem Assessment (IEA) is to be an inclusive, evidence-based process engage stakeholders, in support ecosystem-based management. IEA resource intensive, requiring the engagement personnel, experts from many disciplines, public and private institutions, including issues technology, infrastructure, capacity building, etc. Stakeholders such as policy-makers scientists influential decision-making roles often determine level investment when committing IEA. It thus critical understand how these specific stakeholders perceive IEA, well their motivations for engagement. We interviewed government officials, science managers whose decisions are mobilizing resources (time, expertise funding) ecosystem based management (and potentially IEA) Atlantic Ocean. The interviews aimed at documenting perceptions process. Our results show that most research policy generally unaware of, or have misconceptions about concepts. Those who expressed awareness considered unfit address managerial goals. propose could improved by promoting inclusivity applying ocean diplomacy. see two aspects (inclusivity diplomacy) can help true meaning through negotiating, strengthening diversifying involvement international stakeholders. advocate scoping phase importance should core whole during identified engaged. With involvement, there a need make interests visible respected. During phase, safe open space needs secured, so negotiated mutual understanding on concepts, possible outcomes achieved. This article part Mission Project (Horizon 2020) which designed conduct IEAs