Sociocultural Characteristics of Fishermen Communities in Negombo Fishing Villages

Abstract

The fishing industry can be identified as an economic source of Sri Lankan society. The social characteristics of the fishing community living in the coastal area differ from those of the general society. The main objective of this study is to examine the sociocultural characteristics of fisheries communities in the Negombo fishing villages influence their social cooperation and economic challenges. The study included 67 respondents drawn from five fishing villages in the Negombo district, according to a simple random sample, and consisted of a data analysis with a qualitative and quantitative approach. The findings reveal that the fishing culture's rituals are closely related to their way of life and are influenced by Catholicism. The existence of a very wide and strong family bond has fostered cooperation among them and has led to a reduction in the number of reported crimes. Among the customs and traditions integrated with the environment, sea offerings and propitiating the spirit of the sea is traditionally done to increase the fish harvest. In terms of fishing, the majority have used motorized traditional boats, and the fishing gear is still traditional.  It was revealed that environmental change poses economic challenges, and there are very limited alternative forms of employment apart from fishing. The conclusion was that the fishing community is a subcultural group that inherits a socio-cultural identity based on their occupation. Also, to enhance the socio-economic conditions of the Negombo fishing villages, it is crucial to address the low levels of education among fishermen.

KEYWORDS: Negombo fishing communities, Sociocultural characteristics, Traditional fishing practices, social cooperation