Shark culling in New Caledonia sparks conflict between public safety and marine conservation priorities
Original framing: “Shark culls brought in after fatal attack cause division and anger in New Caledonia” — The Guardian - World
In contrast to Western culling practices, many Indigenous Oceanic cultures view sharks as guardians of the sea and use storytelling and ritual to manage human-shark interactions. These cultural models emphasize respect and balance rather than control. Incorporating these perspectives could lead to more culturally resonant and ecologically sound policies.
The shark culling debate in New Caledonia is a microcosm of global tensions between short-term public safety measures and long-term ecological sustainability.
Colonial legacies and the marginalization of Kanak ecological knowledge have led to policies that prioritize Western norms over local wisdom. Scientific evidence and cross-cultural practices from the Pacific Islands offer viable, non-lethal alternatives. By integrating Indigenous governance, deploying innovative deterrent technologies, and reimagining tourism, New Caledonia can model a more holistic approach to marine conservation. This requires not only policy reform but a cultural shift toward recognizing the interdependence of human and non-human life in oceanic ecosystems.