Several studies have shown that the success of the establishment of a marine protected area (MPA) relies on effective resources improvements and local population's and stakeholders' supports (Ramos et al, 2013; Mikalsen and Jentoft, 2008; Yandle, 2003; Chuenpagdee et al, 2011; Chuenpagdee et al, 2013; Pita et al, 2013; Pollnac et al, 2001; Mikalsen et al, 2007 ; Helvey, 2004 ; Gray et al, 2013 ; Christie, 2004). The proposal of the Tunisian environmental authorities for the establishment of a marine protected area (MPA) in Kuriat islands in Monastir (Tunisia) is characteristic of this issue. In order to address the specific situation of this developing country, we have conducted a multiple factor analysis (MFA) and a hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) from a direct survey of fishermen during four periods between November 2009 and February 2013.

According to preliminary surveys, our questionnaire has been formed of three main parts. The first part concerns the socio-economic data of the fishermen, the second deals with their perceptions of the environment and the third part deals with perceptions of the MPA.

The MFA conducted on a survey of 272 observations showed a strong connection between the second and third part, between the first and the third part, and a weak link between the first and the second part. The results highlight the heterogeneity of individuals, which are grouped into three classes according to the socioeconomic characteristics of fishermen, their perceptions of the environment and their views on the MPA.

Key words: MPA, Natural resources, Tunisia, Governance, MFA.