Towards a Model for Maritime Spatial Planning in Sweden-a theoretical exploration of interest representation, stakeholder recognition and equity

Abstract

A wide range of different interests are competing for the use of marine space and marine resources and the demands on marine space are increasing. Traditionally, policies concerning the marine environment and spatial planning have been developed in a fragmented manner, which has made it difficult to assess and mitigate effects. The new EU maritime policy, adopted by Sweden, emphasises the integration of various sectors' aspects as a fundamental substantial objective as well as a crucial part of its implementation meaning that a development of the institutions and procedures of the current planning traditions is inevitable. An essential part of every effective institution is to uphold legitimacy and retain a level of consent and acceptance among concerned parties. Without these factors present, implementation will be jeopardized. Since the new maritime policy implies the confrontation of a range of different interest groups, a great task or challenge in developing an integrated marine planning tradition is about the valuation and representation of concerned interests. The thesis has two empirical and one theoretical objective. Firstly, to outline the different interests claiming space in marine areas and identify possible conflicts. Secondly, to survey and make an analysis of the current Swedish planning tradition. The third, theoretically exploratory objective, is to outline a draft for a theoretical planning model, combining current research on democratic theory and pluralism, focusing on what challenges need to be met to secure a successful implementation of the substantial policy objectives. The thesis shows that very few of the interests claiming space in sea areas are possible to combine and there is no objective definition of stakeholders. Following are a number of challenges that a future planning model have to consider; Whether or not to include binding elements, how to define stakeholders and finally how to determine who should be given admission to contribute to the knowledges upon which spatial planning is based.