BONUS BASMATI Thematic Scoping/Vision Document: report outlining the main conflict and potential synergy areas in crossborder MSP. Deliverable 2.2

Addressing conflicts between marine interests and finding workable solutions that can facilitate synergies between stakeholders is an important task of spatial planning both onshore and in the sea. A general assumption among many experts in marine/maritime spatial planning (MSP) is that promoting synergies and coexistence can enhance spatial efficiency of marine uses and possibly result in a more sustainable use of marine resources. However, in order to promote cooperation, one needs to first establish a better understanding of the crucial components of conflictive and synergetic planning situations and important definitions related to this.

This scoping report examines conceptualisations and analytical perspectives on work with conflicts and synergies in MSP in relation to the case studies of the BONUS BASMATI project. The theme of conflicts and synergies is rather topical, not least in connection with attempts of the EU and other actors to promote growth in the blue economic sector and keep related environmental impacts low. MSP is seen as an important tool or approach to promote and achieve these goals (European Commission 2008; European Commission 2009; European Commission 2012).

Chapter 1 provides introductory reflections on conflicts and synergies in marine spatial planning using both an analytical narrative complemented with examples from conflict theory. The aim is to provide the reader with an easily understandable introduction into relevant terms used and important issues to be considered when working with conflicts and synergies in MSP. These include interests, stakeholders, institutional frameworks, rules, systems and practices, space and geography, knowledge and technologies, conflict-synergies in a broader context. The chapter concludes with an analysis of conflict analysis and management literature and a discussion on the potential role of conflict management in MSP.

Chapter 2 provides examples of conflicts and obstacles that have emerged in a Baltic Sea Region (BSR) context and how, through people, planning processes, projects and institutions synergies have been developed. The chapter focuses on 1) Conflicts of interest: Marine use related conflicts / obstacles and synergies, 2) Institutional cross-border conflicts / obstacles and synergies, 3) Process related conflicts / obstacles and synergies, 4) Knowledge and data related conflicts / obstacles and synergies, 5) Other types of obstacles that are context related.

Chapter 3 zooms in on the three BONUS BASMATI case studies and highlights emerging and potential conflicts and synergies within the case study areas. It also suggests potential synergies and solutions for overcoming challenges that can be addressed in the case studies and during the lifetime of the project.