Unpacking the process: how agenda-setting theory explains the case of creating large scale marine protected areas in Brazil

Author(s)

Goncalves, Leandra ; De Santo, Elizabeth M.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: ENVIRONMENTAL POLITICS; v. 31, n. 2, p. 21-pg., 2021-04-22.

Abstract

In 2018, Brazil announced the designation of two new Large Scale Marine Protected Areas (LSMPAs), resulting in an increase in protection from 1.5% to 26.36% of the country's maritime territory. We employ an agenda-setting theory to analyze the Brazilian LSMPAs as a causal case study, unpacking the factors that led to their creation, and providing insights about the process of reaching global targets. Drawing on a detailed literature analysis and interviews with key stakeholders, we argue that reaching an international goal is a political commitment which emerges within a 'policy window.' Additionally, we offer seven lessons that can improve the chances of reaching an international goal and shifting the agenda: (1) attract media attention; (2) make a formal commitment; (3) launch a movement or a campaign to attain the goal; (4) make the goals legally binding; (5) propose general international goals; (6) diffuse ideas and (7) form support groups. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 19/04481-0 - How to govern the coastal zone in the macro-metropolitan region: challenges for integrated coastal management on the São Paulo coast
• Grantee: Leandra Regina Gonçalves Torres
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Post-doctor
• FAPESP's process: 18/00462-8 - Opportunities and weakeness of integrated coastal management on the São Paulo coast in the context of macro-metropolis governance
• Grantee: Leandra Regina Gonçalves Torres
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral