Setbacks in achieving policy objectives within the legal regime to protect Pakistan's marine environment (2001 to 2020)

Abstract

This research thesis examines the challenges faced by Pakistan in achieving marine policy objectives within its legal regime for protecting the marine environment. The primary aim is to analyze the effectiveness of policy implementation and identify areas that require improvement and strengthening. By comparing successful approaches from other nations, the study seeks to understand the factors contributing to their achievements in marine environmental protection. The research highlights the need for a comprehensive and longterm policy framework designed specifically for safeguarding Pakistan’s marine environment. Using the approach of discourse analysis, a common method in qualitative doctrinal research, the study explores the dynamics of policy-making and the hindrances faced in achieving policy objectives. Internal and external constraints, such as limited implementation mechanisms, weak institutional capacity, corruption, political interference, and inadequate monitoring, are identified. To address these challenges, the research emphasizes the importance of strengthening institutional capacity, engaging with stakeholders, and ensuring proper policy monitoring and evaluation. Through its analysis, the thesis contributes to knowledge by uncovering the reasons behind Pakistan’s policy objective setbacks and exploring successful collaborations and factors in other nations’ policy processes. The findings offer valuable insights that can inform future research and policy improvement efforts in marine conservation. The study spans the period from 2001 to 2020, delving into Pakistan’s existing legal framework for marine environment conservation and its compliance with global commitments and conventions. The research also conducts a stakeholder analysis, assessing the roles of various institutions, politicians, religious and moral norms, NGOs, local and provincial governments, and the impacts of land-based human activities on policy implementation. Case studies from the United Kingdom and the Philippines are presented to provide lessons and best practices for marine environmental protection. Based on the findings, the thesis concludes with recommendations aimed at enhancing policy implementation within Pakistan’s legal regime, fostering a secure marine environment for the nation’s ecological balance and sustainable future.