
Anastasia Smith
Lancaster University
Email: a.smith55@lancaster.ac.uk
Research Interests
Anastasia’s research focuses on the effectiveness of devolved governance approaches in managing coral reef fisheries in Kenya. Her work aims to bridge the gap between ecological conservation and social equity by exploring how community-based management can lead to more sustainable and resilient fisheries. In her PhD project, she investigates both the social and ecological outcomes of devolved governance systems, seeking to provide insights that can inform policy at local and national levels.
- Characterise contemporary tropical fisheries governance, situating it in its historical context.
- Evaluate the institutional fit of contemporary fisheries policy in Kenya.
- Determine the social success of devolved governance structures.
- Determine the ecological success of devolved governance structures.
- Identify lessons learned for effective co-management.
Her interdisciplinary approach integrates ecological monitoring with social science methodologies, such as interviews and participatory mapping, to provide a holistic view of how governance impacts both the environment and local communities. Ultimately, Anastasia aims to contribute to marine policy and create effective marine protected areas by working closely with stakeholders, including local fishers, policymakers, and conservation organisations.

