Coping strategies of elder Sama-Bajau fishermen in response to climate change in Wangi-Wangi Island, Indonesia

This qualitative study explores how elder Sama-Bajau fishermen on Wangi-Wangi Island, Wakatobi National Park, Indonesia, cope with climate-related livelihood stress. Based on 19 in-depth interviews, the research identifies three coping domains: immediate physical adjustments to heat and storms, household and social resource mobilisation, and emotional and relational practices that maintain household harmony. These strategies differ from those of younger fishers who often diversify livelihoods or migrate. Elders rely on familiarity with local marine conditions, accumulated ecological knowledge, and family-based support systems to adapt within their physical and social limits. Climate change amplifies existing livelihood pressures, increasing the use of practices such as meal sharing, borrowing from middlemen, and food rationing. Agerelated factors, including declining physical capacity and limited mobility options, make emotional stability, spousal support, and small daily adjustments especially important. These findings show that elder fishers contribute to household and community resilience and underscore the need to integrate their perspectives and knowledge systems into climate adaptation planning.

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