An authority for marine spatial planning (MSP): A systemic review

Different challenges have been encountered in the implementation of MSP. Some of these challenges are attributed to the different governance approaches and structures, and the absence or lack of channels of communication between MSP agencies at the national and international level. In addition, there are differences between the practices of institutional systems. Recent studies have focused on the importance of addressing issues related to an authority for MSP. Nevertheless, there has been no comprehensive study that focused on addressing the governance and authority(agency) type over marine areas within the national jurisdiction. Although it has been argued that, as yet, there is no single solution or unique recipe for the successful implementation of MSP, this study was aimed at carrying out a systematic review of the literature concerning an MSP authority and its types and its related concepts. By doing so, it is believed that this study will be able to highlight the practices related to an MSP authority and its tools of governance, and the approaches for its implementation, ultimately highlighting the best practices that can be mainstreamed worldwide. In addition, recommendations will be introduced concerning the authority of the MSP that suits its transboundary nature. In conclusion, it is believed that the identification of a single authority (agency) type would serve as an administrative reference for all agencies and stakeholders nationally and internationally.